Date of Birth: October 7, 1955
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Biography
Yo-Yo Ma is a world-renowned cellist, recognized for his extraordinary musical talent and his commitment to exploring the intersections of different cultures through music. Born in Paris, France, to Chinese parents, Ma showed prodigious talent at an early age, beginning to play the cello at just four years old. He later moved to New York City, where he studied at the prestigious Juilliard School before attending Harvard University, where he graduated with a degree in anthropology. Over the course of his career, Ma has recorded more than 90 albums and won 18 Grammy Awards. He is celebrated not only for his classical performances but also for his work in various genres including American bluegrass, traditional Chinese music, and Argentine tango. Ma is the founder of the Silk Road Ensemble, a collective that brings together musicians from across Eurasia to foster cross-cultural collaboration.
5 Interesting Facts about Yo-Yo Ma
1. Yo-Yo Ma performed for Presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy when he was just seven years old.
2. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011.
3. Ma’s cello, a Montagnana from Venice, is valued at over $2.5 million.
4. He has been involved in various humanitarian efforts, including working with the United Nations.
5. Yo-Yo Ma has appeared in popular media, including on “The Simpsons” and “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.”
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Yo-Yo Ma
1. “Music is powered by ideas. If you don’t have clarity of ideas, you’re just communicating sheer sound.”
2. “I think of music as the glue that binds us together and the oil that helps us move.”
3. “To be a musician is a great privilege but also a great responsibility.”
4. “The role of music is not just to entertain but to inspire, educate, and bring people together.”
5. “Every day I make an effort to go toward what I don’t understand.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Yo-Yo Ma’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $25 million.
Children
Yo-Yo Ma has two children with his wife, Jill Hornor: Nicholas Ma and Emily Ma.
Relevant Links
1. [Yo-Yo Ma Official Website](http://www.yo-yoma.com/
2. [Yo-Yo Ma on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yo-Yo_Ma
3. [Silkroad Ensemble](https://www.silkroad.org/
4. [Yo-Yo Ma on AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/yo-yo-ma-mn0000687479
5. [Yo-Yo Ma’s TED Talks](https://www.ted.com/speakers/yo_yo_ma
