Yo-Yo Ma

Yo-Yo Ma was born in 1955 in Paris, France, to Chinese parents. He moved to the United States as a young boy. He became one of the most famous cello players in the world. The cello is a big string instrument that makes a warm, deep sound. Yo-Yo Ma has played for presidents, kings, and millions of fans.

His Music

Yo-Yo Ma started playing the cello when he was only four years old. By age seven, he played for two American presidents. He studied at Juilliard and Harvard. He plays classical music, but he also plays music from all over the world. He has made more than 90 albums and won over 18 Grammy Awards.

Cellist Yo-Yo Ma performing with a big orchestra in Los Angeles.
Cellist Yo-Yo Ma performing with a big orchestra in Los Angeles. (Jose Galvez, Los Angeles Times / Wikimedia Commons)

His Projects

Yo-Yo Ma started a group called the Silk Road Ensemble. It brings together musicians from many different countries. They share music from their homes and play together. He wants music to help people understand each other. He has also played music for movies, like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

Fun Facts

  • Yo-Yo Ma's cello is over 300 years old.
  • He once left his cello in a taxi in New York City, but the police helped him get it back.
  • He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011.

Did You Know?

Yo-Yo Ma has played his cello in all kinds of places, from big concert halls to small towns and even the United Nations.