Yo-Yo Ma!

 We saw Yo-Yo Ma last night!

Yo-Yo Ma has to be one of the best known and popular classical musicians. He is an amazing cellist, but has not limited  himself to classical music. He has played Appalachian music with Mark O'Connor and Edgar Meyer. He initiated the Silk Road global musical journey. He is a wonderful, dedicated educator, not limited to teaching music students but encompassing everyone. 

About 15 years ago, Mr. Ma was in Chicago and giving a free master class downtown. We went -- my husband, teenage daughter, her friend, and me. This was during the Silk Road experience. I don't remember many specifics any more, but I do remember Mr. Ma involving all of us in rhythm experiences using our hands to clap, etc. What I do remember is how inclusive and inspiring he was, along with being unconventional for a classical musician. 

He could have spent his career like most top soloists - soloing with orchestras all over the world, focusing on classical music, playing chamber music with other top musicians. Instead, he has continually looked to expanding his musical interests and reaching out to all people. He has said: "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."

Mr. Ma was here yesterday! He soloed with the Chicago Symphony in a special concert, playing the cello concerto by English composer Edward Elgar, a lovely 20th century piece. Orchestra was packed with a very enthusiastic audience. After the applause, he spoke to the audience briefly and was given a bouquet of roses by a young woman in the audience. He immediately used the bouquet to give roses to many of the women in the orchestra. 

After the concert my husband and I went to a nearby restaurant and had sorbet. The maitre-d asked if we had been to the Yo-Yo Ma concert. "How was it? Everyone at dinner (before the concert) was talking about it -- getting to see Yo-Yo Ma tonight."

He's touring the country right now, big cities and small towns. If you can, go see and hear him!