Why do we say O Canada?

“O Canada” (French: Ô Canada) is the national anthem of Canada. The song was originally commissioned by Lieutenant Governor of Quebec Théodore Robitaille for the 1880 Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day ceremony; Calixa Lavallée composed the music, after which, words were written by the poet and judge Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier.

Is Canadian anthem in French?

Proclaimed to be Canada’s national anthem on July 1, 1980, “O Canada” was first sung in French 100 years earlier. Download the poster [ PDF Version, 2 MB ] of the official lyrics in English. Download the sheet music [ PDF Version, 63 KB ] with the official lyrics in English and French.

How was O Canada written?

“O Canada” wasn’t written in English for English Canadians—it was written in French for French Canadians. The song premiered on Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, Quebec’s national holiday, because it was commissioned by the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Society to be a chant national—a national anthem, exclusively for French Canada.

What was Canada’s original anthem?

“O Canada” is Canada’s national anthem. Originally called “Chant national,” it was written in Québec City by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier (words in French) and composer Calixa Lavallée (music), and first performed there on 24 June 1880.

Who made O Canada?

Calixa LavalléeO Canada / Composer

How long is O Canada?

28-bar
“O Canada” is a 28-bar song written as a formal march in 4/4 time and marked “maestoso è risoluto.” The original key of G is particularly suitable for instrumental performances. A lower key — F, E or E flat — is preferable when it is sung. The original version, in G, is for four voices and piano.

Why did Canada stop singing God Save the Queen?

Symbols matter, and for the government of Ontario to impose a colonial ritual like the singing of “God Save the Queen” indicates a turn away from recognition of the injustices done to Indigenous peoples in Ontario.