O Canada (was: Oh, Canada)

Subject: RE: O CANADA
From: harpmolly
Date: 22 Jun 07 - 04:48 PM

I really dig "O Canada". I got to sing it at a Canadian football game once...:)

M

Subject: RE: O CANADA
From: Inukshuk
Date: 22 Jun 07 - 04:03 PM

I have a vision of this song being sung and broadcast by CBC for 24 hours some July 1st in the (hopefully near) future. It would start with many versions in Native languages, the standard French, then English arrangements, followed by every other language and culture that now holds Canada dear. It's time we joined hands and looked forward together.

Subject: RE: O CANADA
From: Becca72
Date: 22 Jun 07 - 03:58 PM

I'm a Montreal Canadiennes fan so I already know O Canada....but I only know the English version so I guess I won't be singing it in Quebec anytime soon...

Subject: O CANADA - lyrics & info
From: Joe Offer
Date: 22 Jun 07 - 03:53 PM

Now, for the record, this Department of Canadian Heritage Website (click) has lyrics, music, history, and anything else you would like or not like to learn about "O Canada."

-Joe-

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Official Lyrics of O Canada!

Lyrics O Canada (English version)

O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!

From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Lyrics O Canada (French version)

« O Canada! Terre de nos aïeux,
Ton front est ceint de fleurons glorieux!

Car ton bras sait porter l'épée,
Il sait porter la croix!

Ton histoire est une épopée
Des plus brillants exploits.

Et ta valeur, de foi trempée,
Protégera nos foyers et nos droits.

Protégera nos foyers et nos droits. »

Lyrics O Canada (Bilingual version - non official)

O Canada! Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command,

Car ton bras sait porter l'épée,
Il sait porter la croix!

Ton histoire est une épopée
Des plus brillants exploits,

God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

The History of the National Anthem

Summary

"O Canada" was proclaimed Canada's national anthem on July 1, 1980, 100 years after it was first sung on June 24, 1880. The music was composed by Calixa Lavallée, a well-known composer; French lyrics to accompany the music were written by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier. The song gained steadily in popularity. Many English versions have appeared over the years. The version on which the official English lyrics are based was written in 1908 by Mr. Justice Robert Stanley Weir. The official English version includes changes recommended in 1968 by a Special Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Commons. The French lyrics remain unaltered.

Subject: RE: O CANADA
From: gnu
Date: 22 Jun 07 - 03:42 PM

Inukshuk.... good idea. ;-)

Subject: O CANADA
From: Inukshuk
Date: 22 Jun 07 - 03:33 PM

I have a challenge for all you Canadian Mudcats. Learn to play or sing "O Canada" so that you can give a hearty rendition by July 1st. It's easy enough to sing, but the chords can be a bit complicated. There are, however, some delicious progressions for those of us patient enough to work it out. The tune can be played in any style from Bluegrass to ballad to blues. Take your pick, this tune works with everything. It's time we showed some real pride and appreciation up here.