The legacy of Pau Casals
On Friday, April 4, the cellist Roger Morelló evoked the deep humanist essence of Pau Casals, just before his performance at the Sant Pau modernist precinct, framed within the Life Victoria Festival. “We are all leaves of the same tree, and this tree represents our humanity,” the teacher recalled. This reflection served as a common thread for an evening that honored the roots that unite us as a society.
A recital that revives the past
Morelló offered a selection of his album ‘The Voice of Casals’, which intertwines classic works by the teacher with contemporary creations by Catalan composers such as Marc Migó and Elisenda Fábregas. These contemporary pieces reflect on the past with a current look. In particular, the ‘Variations on the name of Casals’ of Migó, full of references to the life and work of the great musician, were performed by Morelló with an exceptional energy and sound, which captivated the audience.
Interpretations full of passion
The cellist addressed Bach’s second suite sararabanda with impressive mastery, highlighting his technical skills with exquisite trinadas. The highlight of the night was, without a doubt, the ‘Dances of the Earth’ of Fábregas, an evocation of childhood and the roots that resonated with a palpable emotional force. Its interpretation, although slightly affected in some passages, shone through its expressiveness and intensity.
La New Promesa: Nard, Williams
The second concert presented a new star: Nardus Williams, a soprano with a fresh and exciting voice. His repertoire, which is unusual at a Lied festival, was transformed into a monodrama that explored subjects of lament and abandonment, with works by Italian composers of the Seicento and Settecento such as Monteverdi and Frescobaldi. The accompaniment of the Thiorba, by Elizabeth Kenny, provided a rich and distinctive basis for its performance.
An interpretation that captivates
Williams showed impeccable diction and an impressive ability to project his voice in the acoustics of the room, without exceeding himself. His attentive and detailed interpretation evoked the feeling of witnessing a lied concert long before the genre existed. However, it was suggested that he could improve his coloratura to get a cleaner brightness in the lower notes.
Reflections on the future
With two innovative and unconventional performances, the evening offered an opportunity to reflect on the past with a feeling of nostalgia, while inspiring hope for a future full of promises. Lessons learned and shared music remind us of the importance of our roots as we go forward.