Casals, Pablo
Casals, Pablo (Pau, in the Catalan form) (b Vendrell, Catalonia, 1876; d Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, 1973). Sp. cellist, conductor, composer, and pianist. Began career in Barcelona cafés and Paris ths. Prof. of vc., Barcelona Cons. 1897–9. Soloist at Lamoureux Concerts, Paris, and Crystal Palace, London, 1899. First US tour 1901. Thenceforward brilliant career as world's foremost cellist. Formed notable trio with Cortot and Thibaud. Founded Casals Orch., Barcelona 1919. Went into voluntary exile from Sp. 1939 in protest against Franco régime, vowing never to return while Spain was under totalitarian rule (a vow he kept). In 1950 founded Prades Fest. in French Pyrenees. Settled in Puerto Rico, 1956, founding fest. there. Played in United Nations Assembly 1958 and at White House for President Kennedy 1961. In Oct. 1971 cond. his Hymn to the United Nations (Auden) at the U.N. headquarters, NY. Comp. vc. pieces, orch. works, and oratorio El pessebre (The Manger).
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Casals, Pablo
