Yo Yo Ma, one of the world’s most highly acclaimed cellists, was born in Paris to Chinese parents, both of whom were musicians. By 4 years old, he was recognized as a child prodigy and at age 7, when his family moved to New York, he was already in demand. He has recorded more than 75 albums and has received 18 Grammys. He founded and was artistic director of The Silk Road Project, an organization which explores musical traditions along that ancient trade route. Among his many awards are the National Medal of Arts received in 2001 and The Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2010. Not only is Maestro Ma perhaps the greatest living cellist, but also a vital musical ambassador to the world. This from his website – “Music, like all of culture, helps us to understand our environment, each other, and ourselves. Culture helps us to imagine a better future. Culture helps turn "them" into "us." And these things have never been more important”.