"You know how Syrinx disregarded fiery Aphrodite and what price she paid for her too great pride and love for virginity; how she turned into a plant with reedy growth substituted for her own, when she had fled from Pan's love, and how she still sings Pan's desire!"
(Nonnus of Panopolis, Dionysiaca, book 16. Greek poet, 5th cent.AD)

Debussy's la flûte de Pan (better known as Syrinx) was originally written for flute. The characteristics of the cello capture and unfold what is distinctly French about this piece.