Famous musician

Yo-Yo Ma is one of the world's most sought-after cellists. He has performed all over the world, both as a soloist and as a symphony player.

Quick Facts

Was born in Paris in 1955.Gave his first public concert at the age of

five.Played at Carnegie Hall at the age of nine.Has recorded over 45 albums.Has won 12 Grammy Awards.Starred in a PBS series "Inspired by Bach".Owns two cellos, both over 200 years old.

Yo-Yo Ma is very interested in reaching and helping younger generations of musicians, often giving master classes to students in cities where he is performing. He has appeared on both Mr. Rodger's Neighborhood and Sesame Street in order to expose kids to the cello and to classical music.

Have you ever forgot your instrument at home? Well, you aren't alone. Once, when Mr. Ma was playing in New York, he accidentally left his cello (worth about two and a half million dollars) in the trunk of a taxi he was riding in. Yes, he recovered the instrument.

Yo-Yo Ma has recorded albums with many other musicians. Perhaps the most unusual team-up is with Bobby McFerrin, a vocalist. The album is called "Hush", which contains classical music by Vivaldi, Bach, and others, along with some original compositions by Mr. McFerrin. Some of the pieces sound "serious", others sound like the performers are "goofing off".