El Vendrell, the birthplace of renowned Catalan cellist, composer, and conductor Pau Casals, officially launched the 150th anniversary celebration of his birth on Monday, 13th April 2026. A grand ceremony, attended by top political and cultural figures, marked the beginning of a multi-year commemoration.
The inaugural event, held at the Auditori del Tívoli and Plaça Nova in El Vendrell, Tarragona province, initiated a broad programme of activities. This extensive celebration will continue until October 2027, encompassing local, national, and international initiatives.
High-ranking officials present included Salvador Illa, President of the Generalitat de Catalunya, Josep Rull, President of the Parliament of Catalunya, and Ernest Urtasun, Spain's Minister of Culture. Lluïsa Moret, President of the Diputació de Barcelona, also attended, alongside numerous other dignitaries.
The evening featured performances directed by dramatist Pau Carrió and presented by actress Elisabet Casanovas. Attendees enjoyed musical selections from the Quartet Gerhard and the Cor Cererols, led by Marc Díaz.
Casals' Iconic Cello Takes Centre Stage
A highlight of the ceremony was the performance by Òscar Alabau, solo cellist for the Gran Teatre del Liceu Orchestra. Mr Alabau played Casals' historic Goffriller cello, captivating the audience with its unique sound.
The event began with an introduction from Kenneth Martínez, Mayor of El Vendrell, Casals' hometown. Manel Gasch i Hurios, Abbot of Montserrat and President of the Pau Casals Foundation, then read a letter from Marta Casals Istomin, the Foundation's Vice-President and Casals' widow.
Following these opening remarks, Ms Casanovas introduced segments on Pau Casals' life, music, and values. The Quartet Gerhard performed pieces by Bach and Beethoven, while Cor Cererols presented Casals' "O Vos Omnes."
Mr Alabau concluded the Auditori del Tívoli segment by playing Bach's Suite No. 1 on the Goffriller cello. He was escorted by representatives from the La Lira Vendrellenca and Dansaires del Penedès sardana groups. This emotional performance was followed by speeches from Mr Rull, Mr Urtasun, and Mr Illa.
Community Celebrations in Plaça Nova
The formal ceremony concluded with Mr Alabau performing Casals' "El cant dels ocells" (Song of the Birds) on the Goffriller cello. Afterwards, celebrations moved to Plaça Nova for a popular street festival.
The group Ço del Botafoch accompanied the dignitaries from the Auditori to the square. Grallers del Vendrell and Jordi Inglès "Bero" performed traditional "Toc de matinades" and "Toc d’ofertori" pieces.
The square then hosted sardana dances by Colla Sardanista Dansaires del Penedès, Colla Sardanista de La Lira Vendrellenca, and Colla Sardanista Juvenil Giravolta de Valls. Cobla La Principal de Tarragona provided music, performing "Sant Martí del Canigó."
The Nens del Vendrell castellers group built a "pilar," a human tower. Various traditional cultural groups from El Vendrell concluded the street event with their "diables" (devils), "gegants" (giants), and traditional stick, Valencian, shepherd, gypsy, ribbon, and tambourine dances.
The Legacy of the Goffriller Cello
Pau Casals acquired the exceptional Goffriller cello in 1908. Crafted in 1733 by Venetian luthier Matteo Goffriller, Casals played this instrument for over sixty years. Upon his death, he bequeathed the cello to the Pau Casals Foundation.
The Foundation has decided to entrust the cello to the first laureate of the Queen Elisabeth International Competition. This prestigious competition will take place in June 2026 in Brussels.
The competition winner will commit to performing with the Goffriller cello in Catalonia. These performances include the Pau Casals International Music Festival in El Vendrell and a concert at the Palau de la Música Catalana in July.
A Lasting Cultural Impact
This extensive commemoration highlights Casals' enduring influence on music and Catalan culture. His legacy as a humanitarian and advocate for peace continues to resonate globally.
The anniversary programme aims to introduce new generations to Casals' work and values. It reinforces Catalonia's rich musical heritage and its contributions to the international arts scene.
Residents and visitors can anticipate numerous opportunities to engage with Casals' music and story throughout the multi-year celebration. The return of his Goffriller cello to Catalan stages promises a truly special experience for classical music enthusiasts.
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Originally published by El Vendrell. Read original article.
