What key is O Canada?

G major
O Canada/Keys
“O Canada” is a 28-bar song originally written in the key of G major for four voices and piano, as a march in 4/4 time to be played “maestoso è risoluto” (“majestic and resolved”).

Why do Canadians sing O Canada?

Anthems of Canada. When the first familiar chords of “O Canada” play at schools, hockey games and other events, Canadians stand with pride in honour of their country. Proclaimed to be Canada’s national anthem on July 1, 1980, “O Canada” was first sung in French 100 years earlier.

What does O Canada symbolize?

Originally called ‘Chant National’, O Canada! was written as a patriotic song for French Canada in 1880. O Canada! was completed in April 1880 and received a tremendous response from public. The first performance of O Canada! was held on June 24, 1880 in Quebec City.

When was God added to O Canada?

July 1, 1980
Stanley Weir’s “O Canada” was accepted as the official English language version on July 1, 1980, a hundred years after the French version was performed for the first time. Weir’s text was changed slightly as Pierre Trudeau’s government added the lyrics “God keep our land glorious and free!”

Why is O Canada important?

Yet there it is—that pride, love and joy in community that the anthem brings us. “O Canada” has long been the song of our nation, working its steady way into the hearts and lungs of the population, although it did not become our official national anthem until 1980.

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.

What were O Canada original words?

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. *The change from the original English words “thou dost in us command” to “in all thy sons command” first occurred in 1913, and it became something of a controversy beginning in the late 20th century.

What are the words to Oh Canada in French?

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. O Canada! Terre de nos aïeux, Ton front est ceint de fleurons glorieux.