YO-YO MA

Impact

Yo Yo Ma’s musical talent has torpedoed him to stardom. While known globally for his musical contributions, for Yo Yo Ma, it’s always been about exploring the intricacies that make us human.

His multi-faceted career has taken him into the realms of education, economics and international politics. Yo Yo Ma has dedicated much of his work to forging shared understanding through the culture. And what better vehicle to convey culture than music.

Bio

Yo-Yo Ma is a world-renowned cellist whose extraordinary musical journey began in Paris on October 7, 1955. Born to Chinese parents, he moved to the United States at the age of seven. A child prodigy, Ma's fascination with the cello started at the tender age of four when he was introduced to the instrument by his father, a violinist. He continued his cello studies with Leonard Rose at the Juilliard School. After his conservatory training, he sought out a liberal arts education, graduating from Harvard University with a degree in anthropology in 1976.

Ma's dedication to anthropology through music is reflected in his commitment to bridging cultural gaps and fostering dialogue. The Silk Road Ensemble, composed of musicians from various cultural backgrounds, showcases the richness of global musical traditions, demonstrating Ma's belief in the power of music to transcend borders and connect people on a profound level.

One of the most memorable anecdotes from Yo-Yo Ma's illustrious career is his famous impromptu performance at the 2009 inauguration of President Barack Obama. In the frigid weather, Ma's cello strings were at risk of snapping, prompting him to use a backup recording for the broadcast. However, he decided to play live, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in music, even in challenging conditions.

His groundbreaking work in this realm earned Yo-Yo Ma numerous accolades, including the Polar Music Prize and the Fred Rogers Legacy Award, highlighting his impact not only as a cellist but also as a cultural ambassador. Through his extraordinary dual pursuits in anthropology and music, Yo-Yo Ma has become a symbol of the unifying force that art can wield in a diverse and interconnected world.