Composer’s Note:

Internationally renowned cellist Pablo Casals revolutionized cello playing. During his formative years, Pau experienced the horrors of World War II and the Spanish Civil War. Pau dedicated his life to helping those who fought the Nazis and Fascism while supporting the revolutionists fighting Franco’s dictatorial regime in Spain. In its inaugural year, 1963, Pau was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Kennedy. In 1971, Pau received the United Nations Peace Medal in recognition of his tireless work for peace, justice, and freedom.