Lavallée: The Musical Journey of the Composer of O Canada
The history of Canadian music is inextricably linked to the life of Lavallée, a versatile musician whose career spanned continents and genres. From the stages of Montreal to the battlefields of the American Civil War, Lavallée's diverse experiences as a performer, teacher, and composer culminated in the creation of one of the most recognizable melodies in the world.
Early Career and the New Orleans Minstrels
Lavallée began his public performance career on February 28, 1859, at the Theatre Royal on Côté Street in Montreal. His talent quickly caught the attention of Charles Duprez, who hired him to play the violin, cornet, and piano. This opportunity led Lavallée to join the New Orleans Minstrels, a travelling minstrel troupe. With this company, he toured extensively throughout the United States in the years preceding the American Civil War.
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Military Service and Return to Montreal
The outbreak of the American Civil War shifted the course of Lavallée's life. On September 17, 1861, he enlisted in Providence as a private and musician in the regimental band of the 4th Rhode Island Infantry Regiment. He served with the regiment until October 3, 1862, when he was mustered out.
Following his military service, Lavallée briefly rejoined Duprez's company for further touring until the fall of 1863, at which point he returned to his home in Montreal. Between December 1863 and early 1866, he focused on organizing concerts, composing original works, and teaching music.
International Travels and Professional Growth
In 1866, Lavallée returned to the United States under the employment of Duprez, remaining there until 1872. During this period, specifically in December 1867, he married Josephine Gentilly in Lowell, Massachusetts. After a two-year residency in Paris, he returned to Montreal in July 1875.
Between 1875 and 1880, Lavallée split his time between Montreal and Quebec City. He established himself as a pianist, organist, and music teacher, while also conducting operatic and orchestral productions. His work took him to various concert halls, including the Montréal Academy of Music and several cities across the U.S. Notably, his students included the composer Alexis Contant.
The Composition of O Canada
The pinnacle of Lavallée's compositional legacy occurred in 1880. To celebrate St. Jean-Baptiste Day, Théodore Robitaille, the Lieutenant Governor of Québec, commissioned Lavallée to set music to a patriotic poem written by Adolphe-Basile Routhier. The resulting composition was "O Canada".
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Despite this achievement, financial difficulties eventually forced Lavallée to move back to the United States. In his later years, he became an advocate for the union between Canada and the United States.
Key Facts
- First Performance: February 28, 1859, at Montreal's Theatre Royal.
- Military Service: Served as a musician in the 4th Rhode Island Infantry Regiment (1861–1862).
- Major Work: Composed the music for "O Canada" in 1880.
- Instruments: Proficient in violin, cornet, piano, and organ.
- Notable Pupil: Composer Alexis Contant.
| Period | Key Activity/Location | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1859 | Montreal, Canada | Debut at Theatre Royal |
| Pre-1861 | United States | Musician with New Orleans Minstrels |
| 1861–1862 | Rhode Island, USA | Private/Musician, 4th Rhode Island Infantry |
| 1866–1872 | United States | Touring Musician |
| 1875–1880 | Montreal & Quebec City | Conductor, Teacher, and Organist |
| 1880 | Quebec, Canada | Composer of "O Canada" |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who commissioned the music for O Canada?
The music was commissioned by Théodore Robitaille, the Lieutenant Governor of Québec, to celebrate St. Jean-Baptiste Day in 1880.
Who wrote the lyrics for O Canada?
The music composed by Lavallée was set to a patriotic poem written by Adolphe-Basile Routhier.
What instruments did Lavallée play?
Lavallée was a multi-instrumentalist who played the violin, cornet, piano, and organ.
Did Lavallée serve in any wars?
Yes, he served as a private and musician in the 4th Rhode Island Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War from 1861 to 1862.
Where did Lavallée teach and conduct?
He worked in Montreal and Quebec City, conducting in venues such as the Montréal Academy of Music, as well as in various cities across the United States.