150 Years of Pau Casals: Music, Humanism, and Peace (2026-2027)
December 29, 2026, marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of Pau Casals, one of the most universal figures of Spanish and Catalan culture, and an indisputable reference in 20th-century music. To mark this milestone, Acción Cultural Española (AC/E) is supporting the commemoration promoted by the Pau Casals Foundation, which will take place throughout 2026 and 2027.
Pau Casals was not only an exceptional cellist, conductor, and composer; he was also a teacher and humanist whose firm commitment to freedom, democracy, and peace deeply marked his life and artistic career. This celebration, titled Casals 150, is a unique opportunity to reclaim his legacy from a contemporary perspective, open to dialogue with the social and cultural challenges of the present.
A Global Program
The commemoration features a broad and diverse program of exhibitions, concerts, and educational activities of both national and international scope. The goal is to bring his work and values closer to all generations.
This anniversary has been declared official by the Generalitat de Catalunya and recognized as an Event of Exceptional Public Interest by the Government of Spain. The official opening ceremony and the detailed presentation of the program will take place starting in mid-April 2026.
Voices on the Maestro: Legacy and Influence
Pau Casals' footprint remains alive in international institutions and in the memory of musicians who shared the stage and learning with him.
The "Temple of Music" in Marlboro
From the United States, Marlboro Music pays tribute to the maestro on its 75th anniversary, coinciding with this milestone. Frank Salomon, Administrator Emeritus, recalls Casals' connection to Vermont:
"His thirteen summers in Marlboro were inspiring; he called this place 'a temple of music.' Pau Casals inspired all of us and the world of music. Happy anniversary, Don Pablo, from your Marlboro family."
A Fascinating Agent of Change
For soloist and professor Laurence Lesser (New England Conservatory), Casals' influence was simply overwhelming:
"I was lucky enough to play for him in 1961. He was an agent of change in his way of understanding music. As a performer, he was absolutely fascinating; while he played, one was convinced that it was the only possible way to interpret the work. His influence was overwhelming."
More Information and Full Program
We invite you to participate and commemorate this anniversary with us. To see the full schedule and updated calendar of activities, please visit the official website:
