Pablo Casals: 'Song of the Birds' and Cello Encores

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Pablo Casals' masterful cello playing with "Pablo Casals: 'Song of the Birds' and Cello Encores." This exquisite collection, released on March 13, 2012, under the Musical Concepts label, showcases the legendary cellist's virtuosity and musical depth. The album spans a rich tapestry of classical and chamber music, featuring iconic pieces such as "Cant dels Ocells (Song Of The Birds)," a poignant plea for peace composed by Casals himself, and beloved encores that highlight his extraordinary skill and artistry.

The album begins with the enchanting "Cant dels Ocells," a piece that Casals arranged and popularized, followed by the serene "Sant Marti del Canigo" and the charming "Nana" from Manuel de Falla's Seven Spanish Popular Songs. Casals' interpretations of Bach's "Aria" from Organ Pastorale in F and the "Recitative" from Organ Concerto No. 3 are equally captivating, demonstrating his profound understanding of Baroque music. The album also includes selections from Bach's Cello Suites, such as the "Allemande" from Suite No. 1 and the "Prelude" from Suite No. 5, as well as Beethoven's "Adagio" from Piano Sonata No. 9.

In addition to these classical gems, the album features Casals' own compositions, including "Five Pieces in Folk Style" and "Five Concert Pieces for Cello and Piano," which offer a glimpse into his creative genius. The album concludes with the melodious "Melody in F," leaving the listener with a sense of tranquility and reverence for Casals' enduring legacy.

Recorded with various orchestras and pianists, including the Prades Festival Orchestra and Eugene Istomin, this album is a testament to Pablo Casals' enduring influence on the world of classical music. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Pablo Casals: 'Song of the Birds' and Cello Encores" is a treasure trove of musical excellence that will captivate and inspire.

Pablo Casals, born Pau Casals i Defilló, was a Spanish and Puerto Rican cellist, composer, and conductor renowned for his profound musicality and humanitarian spirit. Born in Catalonia in 1876, Casals is celebrated for his groundbreaking recordings of Bach's Cello Suites, which set a benchmark for future cellists. His artistry extended beyond solo performances, encompassing chamber and orchestral music, and he was also a respected conductor. Casals' commitment to social causes was as notable as his musical prowess; he was known to say, "I am a man first, an artist second," reflecting his deep concern for the welfare of others. Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1963, Casals' legacy endures through his timeless recordings and his enduring influence on classical music. His cello arrangement, composed after leaving Spain in protest against Franco's dictatorship, became a signature piece in his concerts, embodying his artistic and political convictions. Thomas Mann once wrote of Casals, "For me his existence is a source of joy. He is one of those artists who come to the rescue of humanity's honour."