Suite for cello solo

Gaspar Cassadó (1897-1966) was a renowned Catalan cellist and composer, celebrated for his extraordinary playing and creative contributions to 20th-century classical music. Born in Barcelona, he showed prodigious talent from an early age. In 1910, he moved to Paris to study with Pau Casals, another great Spanish already mentioned in the website, who became both his mentor and a lasting influence on his musical career. Cassadó quickly earned recognition as one of the greatest cellists of his time, captivating audiences with his moving performances and technical mastery.

In addition to his accomplishments as a performer, Cassadó was an exceptionally gifted composer. His works often drew inspiration from early Hispanic forms and styles, reflecting his deep connection to his cultural heritage. Among his most celebrated compositions is the Suite for Solo Cello, a masterpiece that demonstrates both his compositional originality and his understanding of the cello’s expressive potential.

The Suite for Solo Cello consists of three movements, each influenced by Spanish traditions. The first oscilates between a majestic theme evoking traditional folías and a more energetic rythm inspired by the zarabanda, originally a wild and seductive dance from the Spanish colonies. The second movement takes the form of a sardana, a solemn circle dance typical from Catalonia. In the third movement a soft, dreamlike introduction transforms into an infectious, asymmetrical rhythm in 5/4 time, culminating in a passionate jota.