Yo-Yo Ma

Who Is Yo-Yo Ma?

Yo-Yo Ma is a world-renowned cellist and songwriter of Chinese descent, celebrated for his extraordinary talent and contributions to classical music. A child prodigy, Ma studied at the prestigious Juilliard School before embarking on a career that has seen him release over 75 albums and win 18 Grammy Awards. Beyond his music, Ma is known for his leadership as the artistic director of the Silk Road Project, an initiative that promotes cultural traditions along the ancient Silk Road trade route. Among his many accolades, he received the National Medal of Arts in 2001 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2010.

Early Life

Born on October 7, 1955, in Paris, France, Ma was raised in a musically gifted family. His mother was a singer, and his father, a composer and music teacher, played a pivotal role in Ma’s early training. Both Ma and his older sister, Yeou-Cheng, were introduced to classical music at a young age. His sister studied violin and piano, while Ma began violin lessons as a toddler before switching to the cello at age 4. By age 5, he had already memorized several of Johann Sebastian Bach’s solo suites. Although his parents placed significant pressure on him to excel, Ma credits his father’s disciplined but supportive teaching style for his early achievements.

At age 7, Ma’s family relocated to New York, where he quickly became one of the most prominent young classical musicians in the world. He attended the Juilliard School, but yearned for a broader education. At 16, he enrolled at Harvard University, choosing to limit his performances while exploring a wide range of subjects, from anthropology to German literature. In 1976, he graduated with a liberal arts degree, marking the beginning of a brilliant and versatile career.

Early Career

After graduating from Harvard, Yo-Yo Ma was ready to accelerate his career. However, it came to an abrupt halt when he had to undergo a risky back surgery to treat severe scoliosis. Ma spent six months in a body cast and was unable to play during his recovery. Fortunately, the surgery was a success, and he returned stronger than ever. Soon, he was in high demand, often booking concerts years in advance.

Discography

Ma’s career is defined by experimentation and innovation. While rooted in classical music, his curiosity and versatility have brought the genre to new audiences. His repertoire spans Baroque compositions, American bluegrass, and traditional Chinese music, showcasing a wide range of musical interests. Although opinions on his diverse projects vary, his passion remains undeniable.

Over his illustrious career, Ma has released more than 75 albums. His early works include Great Cello Concertos (1989), Brahms: Sonatas for Cello & Piano (1992), Made in America (1993), and Soul of the Tango: The Music of Astor Piazzolla (1997). Later albums such as Simply Baroque II – Bach & Boccherini (2000), Classic Yo-Yo (2001), Obrigado Brazil (2003), and The Goat Rodeo Sessions (2011) further solidified his standing. He has collaborated with artists like Bobby McFerrin, Mark O’Connor, Edgar Meyer, and Stuart Duncan, among others. A Sony recording artist for three decades, Ma consistently ranks among Billboard’s top classical music sellers.

His creative contributions have earned him 18 Grammy Awards, a testament to his extraordinary talent. Ma plays on two highly prized instruments: a Venetian 17th-century Montagnana cello and the Davidoff Stradivarius.

Other Projects and Honors

In 1998, Ma founded the Silk Road Project to explore the culture and arts along the historic Silk Road. The organization’s mission is to “connect the world’s neighborhoods by bringing together artists and audiences around the globe.” Ma continues to serve as its artistic director.

In 2000, Ma expanded his reach through film when director Ang Lee asked him to play on the soundtrack for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. The film became a worldwide success, winning four Academy Awards, including Best Original Score—a significant moment in Ma’s career.

In addition to his performances on concert stages, Ma has made appearances on television programs such as The West Wing, Sesame Street, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, and The Simpsons. He was also featured on PBS’s Faces of America with Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr., where he explored his ancestral heritage.

Throughout his career, Ma has offered solace through music during times of national tragedy. A year after the September 11, 2001, attacks, Ma was invited to play at the first anniversary memorial ceremony.

Ma’s contributions to the arts have earned him numerous accolades. He was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 2001, the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2010, and he currently serves as a UN Messenger of Peace.

Personal Life

Yo-Yo Ma has been married to Jill Horner since 1978, and the couple has a son and daughter. The Ma family resides in Cambridge, Massachusetts.