Yo-Yo Ma

Birth Name:

Yo-Yo Ma

Birth Place:

Paris, France

Profession

Soundtrack, Music department, Actor, Writer, Producer

Has served as a United Nations Messenger of Peace
Established the nonprofit organization Silkroad in 1998 to help support music, cultural and education programs
Was awarded the Avery Fisher Prize in 1978
Graduated from Harvard University in 1976
Started training as a musician at the age of four
Quote: "All the things I love about life outside music have to do with people, and playing the cello allows me to fulfill all those interests through music․"
Quote: "As musicians, we transcend technique in order to seek out the truths in our world in a way that gives meaning and sustenance to individuals and communities․ That’s art for life’s sake․"
World renowned cellist who has served as a consultant and advisor for many orchestras
Performed all six Bach cello solo suites back to back before a crowd of 17,000 in 2017
Performed at the inauguration of President Barack Obama

Fast Facts