How do you love rap when rap doesn’t love you back? From Rico Nasty’s harassment from toxic Carti fans, to Saucy Santana's unapologetically femme aesthetics in a queerphobic industry, to the assault case that put Megan Thee Stallion’s entire image on trial, each episode of Louder Than A Riot - the second season of our investigative hip-hop podcast - unpacks the unspoken rules of rap that hold the entire culture back. Tap in to our first episode at n.pr/louder-season-2.
Yo-Yo Ma is a world-renowned musician, he's played for presidents and royalty, he's won 18 Grammys, a Peace Ambassador for the UN, and I still feel like he'd give up his seat on the subway.
The world has been kissing this guy's ass for 40+ years and he still seems down to earth and humble. Almost as unbelievable as his mastery of the music. And as always I'll applaud the engineers of Tiny Desk for bringing it to us so beautifully...what an absolute jewel.
i was pretty serious into cello and the classical world as a kid (spent a day on tour with him when i was 11!) and from what i saw and everything i've heard over the years, he really is this insanely nice and humble. always. for someone to be the undisputed world's greatest at something that people adore, and to never show even the slightest trace of acknowledging it, just totally blew me away even then.
"Its not painful to learn something if you do it incrementally" I always use the metaphor of cake to describe learning a piece of music to students "cut it into slices and enjoy - or it'll make you sick"
I basically never comment, but I wanted to say that this is one of the best metaphors I've ever seen for the learning process. Thanks for the inspiration.
THIS. Thank you!! Literally changed my entire approach to trying to learn any new skill. I've been working on a novel for a few years and ripping my hair out at times thinking I'll never finish, but I kept this comment in the back of my mind and took it one day at a time, and now I'm almost done😊 So thank you so much for your wise words. No joke, changed my life
eating a cake without slicing it is one of the best things ever. you just eat it for pure enjoyment and without restraint . some musicians need to learn to let go of restraints because sometimes if you play without restraint you can put more passion and creativity into your playing and life. eating it by slicing it is also symbolic of following societal norms instead of being different and thinking or doing things outside of the box. also just because you don’t slice it doesn’t mean you are going to eat it all in one sitting.
Yo-Yo Ma played at a concert with a meet-and-great gala dinner afterwards. I went to that and brought along my favorite CD recording of his to get his signature. At the end of the dinner, people were leaving and he was wandering around. I went up to him, got his signature, and told him that I was also a cellist and he was one of my greatest inspirations and asked for his handshake. Instead of a handshake, he gave me a big hug. That made my day for years. He's just such a sweet and humble man!
He definitely practices 40 hrs a day. (Edit: This is a Twoset reference, see comments below before coming for me. This is why we can't have nice things.)
In all of this I think we can all agree that leftist "propaganda" actually moves us forward while conservative propaganda just makes it's supporters think its finally ok to say the N-word and shoot up a pizza joint due to wack conspiracy theories, but you do you Alika
Technology is so mysterious, imagine how much it would have cost your grandparents to watch a man with 58 years of experience play the cello? Now there’s literally a man with 58 years of cello experience in our pockets.
Indeed, but it will never be the same as to have the man in front of you playing it so it is a different experience, a cool one, but never as deep as the true one and I wish you to experience it with Yo-Yo Ma or anyone else some day because being overwhelmed by the sound of the instruments is the best feeling on earth! Have a very good day sir!
I saw him live once and his passion was...palpable. You could feel the notes in your bones and almost taste it in the air. It felt like I held my breath for the whole performance bc I was afraid to disturb it in any way. Then he thanks the crowd and he seemed like the gentlest and most joyful musician.
I love Yo Yo’s performances, and, apparently, I also never knew I love his speaking voice, so soothing and calming. Thank you, NPS, for posting this performance, along with all your previous guests!
Gotta measure yourself against who you were yesterday. Last month. Last year. It's the only metric that matters, because it's the only one within our control.
I'm sorry that you feel your existence is so small and inadequate that you have to seek self-worth in a feeble attempt at humoring yourself by belittling strangers on the internet. I hope the best of luck for you and hope you find happiness in your life.
My Grandma died last year, and she loved listening to Yo-Yo Ma. We played his music for her all the time, especially at the very end. I'm so grateful for the joy he has brought to our family, even in times of grief. I believe he helped her leave this world with a peaceful heart.
When he mentions playing the second piece at both a friend’s wedding AND memorial service.. Damn. You can feel and read all the emotion in his facial expressions.
Oh what music can do...the melody of strings stirs my heart to rise and gently carry me through emotions of fear, love, pain and hope leaving behind a smile of life and beauty
Many years ago I attended a Seattle Symphony performance that featured Yo-Yo Ma as soloist. Of course it was a beautiful experience. But then the evening closed with a fine rendition of “Bolero.” At the end of the piece the conductor was having the orchestra members take their bows; suddenly, he points to the rear of the cello section. Yo-Yo stood up in the last chair to thunderous applause; he had snuck in after his solos to sit in. What a man.
I never thought I’d be watching Yo-Yo- Ma on Tiny desk! This is crazy! The first time I heard of him was Watching Arthur lol. Ever since I’ve secretly been a fan!
No one plays the Cello Suite No.1 like Yo Yo Ma, and now that I know the story behind it, I can understand why. He's literally *lived* with that song in every sense of the word.
I didn't know he is also a great speaker! it's great when talented people are also such good communicators for they can better inspire other people to go learn something new too.
If you're interested I found he has an Audiobook thing out on Audible. I haven't listened to it yet but it was free to download so I'l be doing so very soon.
'm neither a cellist or a pianist, but when I see a cello, I think Bach, when I see a piano, I think Chopin. My talents lie elsewhere, but I would have loved to be able to play the fantasie impromptu (among others) and the prelude to cello suite no1, just thinking about that music makes my imagination go wild.
@@jasprittshora5194 Not all instruments make music, I'm currently playing the chisel and hammer, the thread and needle, the paint and brush, the paper and pen, and several others to create. I'm sure you have your instruments as well, or you'll discover and learn to channel them. It's never too late to create, and with all its collectively destructive force, humanity and all life needs it.
I remember this great musician on Mister Rogers Neighborhood as a child. Maybe I, like so many, watched the show for much longer than was age appropriate. At any rate, Mr Ma is timeless and so I hope, are the Tiny Desk concerts.
Yes, very true. The audio quality of Yo-Yo Ma’s genius cello playing is exceptional. It really does his playing justice and it is how he should be heard. He is as good as any musician can get. Though the sound engineer probably didn’t have to work too hard considering this probably sounded astonishingly perfect in person.
@@jordandangelo180 Good audio engineering is by no means an easy feat, and they could have just as easily completely ruined the fidelity of this video. Just think of how many youtube videos have awful audio. They absolutely worked hard to preserve this mix.
In general, the Tiny Desk Concerts are very well recorded, but I think the mics are quite close to the cello, so at least to my taste it makes it sound a bit "overloaded", but it is enjoyable anyway.
You can tell how experienced an artist is just by how comfortable they are talking to the audience between songs. It just feels effortless and so natural like they were born to do this but it's actually years of them honing this skill. I'm in awe!!!
Love Yo Yo Ma. My brother-in-law graduated Northwestern University with a master's and doctorate in cello, recently retired from the Colorado Symphony (ne: Denver Symphony Orchestra) after 34yrs and as principal cellist in the Colorado Central City Opera Orchestra after 25yrs. His favorite composer is Bach. He continues to practice and perform these exact Bach works today. He is 70. He and my sister,71 (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) married 41yrs ago and have lived in Boulder since then. She graduated from the Eastman School of Music on a full tuition scholarship, was the harp faculty at the University of Colorado-Denver, first call union harpist and also played with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra (Denver). Yo Yo Ma performed with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra many years ago and unbeknownst to the audience (unless one was paying attention) sat in the cello section for the second half of the concert. Interesting..........I was there.
It must have been quite an experience listening to this gem of an artist play live. I have always wanted to experience live performance to artists like Yo-yo ma, Pearlman, Pavarotti, etc. I discover new artists every day, some of them a little too late for me to see them live. Thank you for sharing your story.
I remember my elementary school art teacher playing a video of Yo-Yo Ma the cello during class. I literally got lost watching him. He was so passionate and lighthearted when he played. Watching him made me cry. Of course I didn't talk like that then, but I remember it to this day. I fell in love with the cello. I was never able to play an instrument like my older siblings. I am 31 now. Today I talked about getting signed up for lessons. I am so excited.
Have been following the channel for a long time now, even though I haven't commented much...But going from Anderson .Paak to Paramore, Lianne La Havas to Daniel Caesar, Jack White to Yo-Yo Ma is a privilege I can't even put into words. Thank you so much for this, Tiny Desk!!!!
Kinda wanted to comment on that also, but at the same time he explained why he played it and what it represents for him so I guess I can overlook the choice, this once. ;o
he has released three albums of this cello suite, he is revisiting it across his career intentionally. there’s some information about it in the description box, if you are so inclined.
Hey you guys at tiny desk never let us down in showing the world’s finest hip-hop, jazz, funk, pop, rock, and classical musicians. Thank you for going where no radio or venue would dare, serving up this variety of dazzling performances.
I just don't understand WHO would click on a Yo Yo Ma Tiny Desk video, watch it, and then give it a thumbs down. I-just-don't-get-it. I guess 119 people have given up on life, because THIS is life!
It's always mindblowing to see a musician who masters an instrument so perfectly. It's no longer a physical entity that produces sound through technical playing, but a direct expression of his soul. Beautiful!
If you are interested, yo yo ma has recorded all of the Bach cello suites. They are all 1 take recordings in a church or concert hall rather than a studio. My favorite album of his. You can find it on Amazon or streaming services.
The cello is an extension of himself. Such a wonderful sound. Unparalleled and child's play to him. I want to wear headphones and soak this into my bones.
YO YO MA RULES! I’m starting law school and I’m approaching my first midterm and hearing him reiterate that anything you learn is about taking it one bite at a time is really inspirational. Thanks, man. You’re awesome and you’re in West Wing. You truly do rule.
I was lucky enough to watch Yo-Yo Ma perform live a few years ago. The very, very first thing he did/said, which was after he finished his first piece....was along the lines of standing up, take his microphone, gesturing to the rose bouquets on the far sides of the stage, and say "Aren't these flowers beautiful?" I feel that moment was very telling of his character. Both he and Yanni strike me very strongly as being world-renowned musicians who are also deeply invested in the very art and act of being human and celebrating humanity and the world we're lucky enough to live in.
I've always found Bach to be the most emotive of the composers, and Ma's raw talent certainly does justice to that aspect. That was wonderful, thanks for posting this.
My old viola instructor played many instruments and played alongside yo-yo ma. He gave me viola lessons for $25 because I paid for them on my own. He is a very sweet man! I owe Mr. Song a lot!
Oh, dear, what joy, what heights music gives us with people like Yo-Yo Ma, with ideas such as the Tiny Desk Concerts... thank you all. You make us better people through music.
i purchased the cd set when it first came out and have had to buy it again 3 times. by far my most favorite album. as for Yo-Yo Ma... all i can say is that the beauty of God is evident in you and your works... indeed... "you shall know them by their fruit"... thank you for bringing love and hope to us who love you dearly.❤
that opening, accompanied by the falling of man. A meteor plummeting, holding hands with your loved ones, watching it all in its awe-full splendour, the fires ravaging, a flower visited by a bee. I felt the perfection of form, in its beautiful sadness. The dual purpose. From life, from death. Another step, just another step
Can you explain a bit more? To me it's just....good... I like all music, and some classical music sometimes, but I can't feel what's so special about him.
@@destructoooo Pacing, and phrasing. Many string players always boast about intonation and how it's bad to be out of tune, as if intonation is the only important skill to master. It requires wisdom to realize that great music is made by speaking the words and sentences the piece conveys with your instrument, rather than speaking the notes as they are written. Yo-Yo Ma plays like he is telling a story.
im sobbing, this is my first time watching his tiny desk and at the comfort of my home and on the other side of the world, war is happening. Listening to Sarabande while offering a silent prayer to those lives lost. I hope they find peace.
Through a cello like a god through a burning bush. He literally stretches out the moments of time, and imbues them with meaning. It's mathematically magical.
I am listening to this in 2024 and the feelings that it evokes in me are I am sure the same beautiful and heartfelt feelings that were felt by those who listened 9 years ago when it was first recorded.
How do you love rap when rap doesn’t love you back? From Rico Nasty’s harassment from toxic Carti fans, to Saucy Santana's unapologetically femme aesthetics in a queerphobic industry, to the assault case that put Megan Thee Stallion’s entire image on trial, each episode of Louder Than A Riot - the second season of our investigative hip-hop podcast - unpacks the unspoken rules of rap that hold the entire culture back. Tap in to our first episode at n.pr/louder-season-2.
"hold the entire culture back" imagine having this brainworm 24/7
This is not the vibe at all 😅
This is a weirdly placed comment like this is yo-yo ma we don't give af about your podcast...
Get this off here
Yo-Yo Ma is a world-renowned musician, he's played for presidents and royalty, he's won 18 Grammys, a Peace Ambassador for the UN, and I still feel like he'd give up his seat on the subway.
True definition of greatness. What MAKES greatness. Want to be great? Start by giving up your seat on the subway.
Can confirm that he is as awesome a human being as he seems to be. Spouse is a stagehand that has worked his shows.
He sat next to my dad on a plane and gave his first class seat up to another musician he was traveling with, totally a stand up dude!!!
Performed for JFK with his sister at 7 and she was 11 and on piano!
How many people a day do you guess that call him Yo Ma-Ma?
I never had a father but I'm now going to picture him as this man
He’s more of a Ma
@Demetrios Christopher very wise words
That is biologically impossible.
@@JohnDoe-vv3id oh but is beautifully plausible
Good idea! Go with one of the best. 🕊🦋❤️
The world has been kissing this guy's ass for 40+ years and he still seems down to earth and humble. Almost as unbelievable as his mastery of the music. And as always I'll applaud the engineers of Tiny Desk for bringing it to us so beautifully...what an absolute jewel.
jcims underrated comment. Seriously
i was pretty serious into cello and the classical world as a kid (spent a day on tour with him when i was 11!) and from what i saw and everything i've heard over the years, he really is this insanely nice and humble. always. for someone to be the undisputed world's greatest at something that people adore, and to never show even the slightest trace of acknowledging it, just totally blew me away even then.
So awesome to hear, thank you for sharing!
He is very humble and compassionate,,I’ve met him several times in my teaching career,,,
Cindy Mcfarlane thank you for sharing, love hearing from folks that have met him, must have been quite an honor.
"Its not painful to learn something if you do it incrementally" I always use the metaphor of cake to describe learning a piece of music to students "cut it into slices and enjoy - or it'll make you sick"
Imma tell thus to my teacher so she can tell her other students
I basically never comment, but I wanted to say that this is one of the best metaphors I've ever seen for the learning process. Thanks for the inspiration.
Kinda like socialism.
THIS. Thank you!! Literally changed my entire approach to trying to learn any new skill. I've been working on a novel for a few years and ripping my hair out at times thinking I'll never finish, but I kept this comment in the back of my mind and took it one day at a time, and now I'm almost done😊 So thank you so much for your wise words. No joke, changed my life
eating a cake without slicing it is one of the best things ever. you just eat it for pure enjoyment and without restraint . some musicians need to learn to let go of restraints because sometimes if you play without restraint you can put more passion and creativity into your playing and life. eating it by slicing it is also symbolic of following societal norms instead of being different and thinking or doing things outside of the box. also just because you don’t slice it doesn’t mean you are going to eat it all in one sitting.
"Like yesterday, but a little different" yes the essence of life
yeah, thanks for capturing that.
and like you but a little bit different
*was the essence of life
From Mac Miller to Yo-Yo Ma, NPR, you are the best thing that happened in my youtube life.
Slightly disappointed though that, in the comment section, people confuse their tastes with the actual artistic value of the performances.
@@germaincls785 Well put, Germain
All without the top of the hour...*cough*... news!
Germain Cls TRUE FACTS
dont forget queen erykah
i like how he talks to us like a dad hes almost tryna teach us life lesson... and i ACTUALLY dont want to skip ahead such a cool guy
Zeea Beea right girl don't want to miss i second of his wisdom
Same here!
Yo-Yo Ma played at a concert with a meet-and-great gala dinner afterwards. I went to that and brought along my favorite CD recording of his to get his signature. At the end of the dinner, people were leaving and he was wandering around. I went up to him, got his signature, and told him that I was also a cellist and he was one of my greatest inspirations and asked for his handshake. Instead of a handshake, he gave me a big hug. That made my day for years. He's just such a sweet and humble man!
❤ how wonderful 🙏
OMG. What a wonderful story. Thank you for sharing. Made me tear up. He is one person whom I'd love to meet.
Lovely story, thank you for sharing.
Great story! Thanks for sharing
No hint of condescension. Just wisdom and humility. He's my new favourite person.
And curiosity. You have to be profoundly curious to play like that.
He definitely practices 40 hrs a day. (Edit: This is a Twoset reference, see comments below before coming for me. This is why we can't have nice things.)
Gwen D. Ling ling
🤯 oh! a two set violin reference...interesting
@@claudiacabrera5010 You mean *I N T E R E S T I N G*
Troy Müller you’re kidding right?
I'm so happy to get this jajaja
From this performance alone we can see why Yo-Yo Ma always outshines his lesser known twin brother Yo Ma-Ma
sanuva fruit Hahahaha
This joke was in the Arthur episode that featured yo-yo ma
@@ehsomq was it??? I don't watch Arthur but I'd be pissed off if no one came up with this joke before
You just made my day, thank you.
holy shit
"Oh so you work at NPR? What's your day like?"
"Well, Yo-Yo Ma stopped by during lunch"
Misterlascivious "then I went back to shilling leftist propaganda"
*Yo mama stopped by during lunch
In all of this I think we can all agree that leftist "propaganda" actually moves us forward while conservative propaganda just makes it's supporters think its finally ok to say the N-word and shoot up a pizza joint due to wack conspiracy theories, but you do you Alika
B Sheridan leftist propaganda moves further left every day. Complain all you want about the right but the center hasnt moved much.
B Sheridan oh and Idk why you thought we all would agree
Technology is so mysterious, imagine how much it would have cost your grandparents to watch a man with 58 years of experience play the cello? Now there’s literally a man with 58 years of cello experience in our pockets.
Not to mention a man from the opposite side of the world. It would have been a month or more of travel just for him to be at this desk.
Indeed, but it will never be the same as to have the man in front of you playing it so it is a different experience, a cool one, but never as deep as the true one and I wish you to experience it with Yo-Yo Ma or anyone else some day because being overwhelmed by the sound of the instruments is the best feeling on earth! Have a very good day sir!
omg i just got so woke from reading this
I take him out to feed him 5 times a day. It sounds like alot of work but he actually just nibbles on one or two peanuts
Couldn't agree more
not bad, he's probably got a future in music.
He’s ready now for his preliminary exam, he should scrape a pass if he does his very best
He's incredibly famous already. He's been widely known since before I was born. He is the future of music.
Victoria Smith way to pick up on the extremely obvious sarcasm lol
...One day
Victoria Smith r/whoosh
I saw him live once and his passion was...palpable. You could feel the notes in your bones and almost taste it in the air. It felt like I held my breath for the whole performance bc I was afraid to disturb it in any way. Then he thanks the crowd and he seemed like the gentlest and most joyful musician.
Same. I saw him maybe 20 years ago and even to my novice ear I could tell he was one of the very best.
Well said. I have a small collection of his works in my sound system, and I feel that way every time I indulge in his work.
anyone else's first time hearing Yo-Yo Ma's voice?
Lol yes!
He seems like a really cool dude!
I think there was an episode of “Arthur” with Yo-Yo Ma in it?
I love Yo Yo’s performances, and, apparently, I also never knew I love his speaking voice, so soothing and calming. Thank you, NPS, for posting this performance, along with all your previous guests!
i got to meet him with a few other select orchestra students at jones hall in houston, and he was one of the nicest people i’ve ever met!
"It's not painful to learn something if you learn it incrementally."
Just like the pyramids were built, step by step. Nothing impressive is built in a day. Treasure the process and the process will garner treasures.
@@Tonyisgaming aliens did it
but the aliens still didn't do it in a day. i think thats what tony's trying to say here.
Gotta measure yourself against who you were yesterday. Last month. Last year. It's the only metric that matters, because it's the only one within our control.
Nor should they. Why compete with somebody else when you can be yourself? @@potato9441
A Tiny Desk Concert that can move you to tears? What a damn fine day this has turned out to be.
Hm. You felt that too huh?
squttnbear I cry watching a lot of these.
Read your comment during the first 10 seconds or so, didn't buy it. Yet, my cheeks felt moist by the end of the video.
I'm sorry that you feel your existence is so small and inadequate that you have to seek self-worth in a feeble attempt at humoring yourself by belittling strangers on the internet. I hope the best of luck for you and hope you find happiness in your life.
Good to know I am not alone. My keyboard is wet now...
I like the image of 58 years flashing through his head when he plays the prelude.
The Prelude of Cello in G, so inspired. Is there a more beautiful piece of music?
@@robspecht9550
Bach cello suite 3 prelude in C major.
@@robspecht9550Rachmaninoff third piano concerto
My Grandma died last year, and she loved listening to Yo-Yo Ma. We played his music for her all the time, especially at the very end. I'm so grateful for the joy he has brought to our family, even in times of grief. I believe he helped her leave this world with a peaceful heart.
A beautiful thought. I have no doubt she left with peace and a happy spirit.
Has anyone mentioned how incredible he looks for his age?
yeah he clearly moisturizes
Nah he's just Asian
YELLOW DON"T CRACK lol
Yellow stays mellow.
63! Wow
When he mentions playing the second piece at both a friend’s wedding AND memorial service.. Damn. You can feel and read all the emotion in his facial expressions.
I love how you can hear the squeaks and rattles.. reminds you how up close and personal the performance is. Another masterpiece by Tiny desk
Oh what music can do...the melody of strings stirs my heart to rise and gently carry me through emotions of fear, love, pain and hope leaving behind a smile of life and beauty
The NPR sound engineers are top notch.
Cellos sound best from 10 feet away, I call the up-close noise the“working tone” and Yo-yo has a legendary working tone
I love how he hangs his arm around his cello like it's an old friend . . . . . . which it is
Many years ago I attended a Seattle Symphony performance that featured Yo-Yo Ma as soloist. Of course it was a beautiful experience. But then the evening closed with a fine rendition of “Bolero.” At the end of the piece the conductor was having the orchestra members take their bows; suddenly, he points to the rear of the cello section. Yo-Yo stood up in the last chair to thunderous applause; he had snuck in after his solos to sit in. What a man.
I am a total hip-hop head, but Yo- Yo Ma makes me tear up.
He has the most hip hop name you'll hear
Female rapper, Yo-Yo sharked his name.
Same bro. Music is weird like that
It just means you enjoy music.
Respect!
His face looks like he's reliving every good and sad memory he had playing Sarabande.
I never thought I’d be watching Yo-Yo- Ma on Tiny desk! This is crazy! The first time I heard of him was Watching Arthur lol. Ever since I’ve secretly been a fan!
Courtney Moore you should check out the one from a few years ago with Chris Thile, Edgar Myer and Stuart Duncan.. incredible
Same! I love the episode
I so remember that episode!
Yes! I loved the scene where D.W was like Yo Mama's coming to the library! 😂
"Yo Mama says he's coming!" "Yo-Yo Ma, dear."
-Click on video of Yo Yo Ma
-Immediately hear him playing The Yo Yo Ma song.
All is right with the world
No one plays the Cello Suite No.1 like Yo Yo Ma, and now that I know the story behind it, I can understand why. He's literally *lived* with that song in every sense of the word.
I didn't know he is also a great speaker! it's great when talented people are also such good communicators for they can better inspire other people to go learn something new too.
If you're interested I found he has an Audiobook thing out on Audible. I haven't listened to it yet but it was free to download so I'l be doing so very soon.
ive decided to learn a little cello cos of this lovely humble talented gentleman
nicely said !!!!! and what a great perspective
The way he feels about Bach as a cellist is the way I feel about Chopin as a pianist. This brought me tears of painful joy this morning. Thank you
I still struggle with Chopin :( granted I'm just a hobbyist lol but the Etudes kills me haha
'm neither a cellist or a pianist, but when I see a cello, I think Bach, when I see a piano, I think Chopin. My talents lie elsewhere, but I would have loved to be able to play the fantasie impromptu (among others) and the prelude to cello suite no1, just thinking about that music makes my imagination go wild.
Chopin is the goat! Nocturnes and waltz are all fantastic!
@@samuelc6246 You echoed my exact thoughts!!
I wish, I could play instruments :)
@@jasprittshora5194 Not all instruments make music, I'm currently playing the chisel and hammer, the thread and needle, the paint and brush, the paper and pen, and several others to create. I'm sure you have your instruments as well, or you'll discover and learn to channel them. It's never too late to create, and with all its collectively destructive force, humanity and all life needs it.
it is rare to hear classical music played so up close and personal, thank you for sharing this jewel with us
Unless, of course, you play it yourself. And, of course, if we met in person, I'd be happy to play for you, and I'm sure Yo-Yo Ma would be as well.
I remember this great musician on Mister Rogers Neighborhood as a child. Maybe I, like so many, watched the show for much longer than was age appropriate. At any rate, Mr Ma is timeless and so I hope, are the Tiny Desk concerts.
I find it impressive that he's been playing the suites for so many years and still can make them sound interesting
Wow.... let me just pick my jaw up off the floor
:)
life gets better with this so
Such a High quality recording, aside from Yo-yo ma's virtuosity the sound engineer is a virtuoso of his own .
I just think how rich that sound must have been for the people standing in front of him.
Yes, very true. The audio quality of Yo-Yo Ma’s genius cello playing is exceptional. It really does his playing justice and it is how he should be heard. He is as good as any musician can get. Though the sound engineer probably didn’t have to work too hard considering this probably sounded astonishingly perfect in person.
@@jordandangelo180 Good audio engineering is by no means an easy feat, and they could have just as easily completely ruined the fidelity of this video. Just think of how many youtube videos have awful audio. They absolutely worked hard to preserve this mix.
In general, the Tiny Desk Concerts are very well recorded, but I think the mics are quite close to the cello, so at least to my taste it makes it sound a bit "overloaded", but it is enjoyable anyway.
Or her own...
It's a good day when you are reminded that we are lucky enough to exist on this planet the same time as Yo-Yo Ma
A TED talk by Yo-yo Ma at Tiny Desk. Do love it!
His phrasing and dynamic are simply beyond technique and theory. It just sounds like he's breathing and singing.
I am a fan of anyone that puts that much into their music. It was my pleasure.
Watching Yo-Yo Ma with his cello makes me feel like I’m watching a legendary samurai with the most perfect sword.
Love this comment ❤
thanks, SugarDaddy91
SugarDaddy 91 or magical wand. Great analogy ,thanks.
Soooo true
You can tell how experienced an artist is just by how comfortable they are talking to the audience between songs. It just feels effortless and so natural like they were born to do this but it's actually years of them honing this skill. I'm in awe!!!
.ujj
I agree! It’s being a student and then teacher of music, rather than just a player of music
Love Yo Yo Ma.
My brother-in-law graduated Northwestern University with a master's and doctorate in cello, recently retired from the Colorado Symphony (ne: Denver Symphony Orchestra) after 34yrs and as principal cellist in the Colorado Central City Opera Orchestra after 25yrs.
His favorite composer is Bach.
He continues to practice and perform these exact Bach works today. He is 70.
He and my sister,71 (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) married 41yrs ago and have lived in Boulder since then.
She graduated from the Eastman School of Music on a full tuition scholarship, was the harp faculty at the University of Colorado-Denver, first call union harpist and also played with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra (Denver).
Yo Yo Ma performed with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra many years ago and unbeknownst to the audience (unless one was paying attention) sat in the cello section for the second half of the concert. Interesting..........I was there.
It must have been quite an experience listening to this gem of an artist play live. I have always wanted to experience live performance to artists like Yo-yo ma, Pearlman, Pavarotti, etc. I discover new artists every day, some of them a little too late for me to see them live. Thank you for sharing your story.
I like how he’s surprised they clap? He’s like, what am I good??
Silly,
Hes expecting it lol
Maybe because he's grateful that his playing makes others happy? That was not polite clapping, it was enthusiastic.
This man is an amazing human being.
he’s the reason why i do orchestra
💙💜💚💛
That's awesome. Keep going!
Sarabande made my cry, it brought back a lot of memories from my life but I couldn’t tell if they were happy or sad. That was the beauty of it.
Slow Bach is some of the most difficult music to play in the entire classical repertoire. Hats off to this master for playing it so beautifully. 👏
Always beautiful!!! Yo-Yo Ma and J S Bach are my music! Thank you ❤
I remember my elementary school art teacher playing a video of Yo-Yo Ma the cello during class. I literally got lost watching him. He was so passionate and lighthearted when he played. Watching him made me cry. Of course I didn't talk like that then, but I remember it to this day. I fell in love with the cello. I was never able to play an instrument like my older siblings. I am 31 now. Today I talked about getting signed up for lessons. I am so excited.
i hope your cello journey has been progressing well!
Have been following the channel for a long time now, even though I haven't commented much...But going from Anderson .Paak to Paramore, Lianne La Havas to Daniel Caesar, Jack White to Yo-Yo Ma is a privilege I can't even put into words. Thank you so much for this, Tiny Desk!!!!
almost feels like a privilege
The Sarabande was absolutely breathtaking. And it was nice to hear a little ethnomusicological preface to provide some context
Caleb Joseph it's also quite difficult to play, but he makes it look (sound) easy
This music gives me goosebumps. And, it is a great company for my monotonous work.
Parzival look like it gave u more than goosebumps
Y’all really made yo-yo ma, the greatest cello player ever, play “the cello song”
Kinda wanted to comment on that also, but at the same time he explained why he played it and what it represents for him so I guess I can overlook the choice, this once. ;o
I have a feeling they let him pick what he'd play. He probably just really enjoys it.
he has released three albums of this cello suite, he is revisiting it across his career intentionally. there’s some information about it in the description box, if you are so inclined.
Dude, he would gladly play it any time he's asked to.
he played for the president in 1962 when he was tiny. this guy has talent!!
Hey you guys at tiny desk never let us down in showing the world’s finest hip-hop, jazz, funk, pop, rock, and classical musicians. Thank you for going where no radio or venue would dare, serving up this variety of dazzling performances.
In addition to his unprecedented talent, he's got to be one of the most charming people in the world.
he expresses the music with his whole body just look at his face when playing. Its mesmerising.
alfie thorpe yeah it’s like he’s not even playing it, but the music is just coming through him.
I just don't understand WHO would click on a Yo Yo Ma Tiny Desk video, watch it, and then give it a thumbs down. I-just-don't-get-it. I guess 119 people have given up on life, because THIS is life!
Jealous fellows
They were expecting a yoyo tutorial
@@barnibusyenrab23 🤣🤣🤣
Thanks to your comment, I disliked the video.
You are so right. Maybe they never have heard a cello. I love ❤️ the cello.
It's always mindblowing to see a musician who masters an instrument so perfectly. It's no longer a physical entity that produces sound through technical playing, but a direct expression of his soul. Beautiful!
Ya'll remember that time Yo-Yo Ma was on Arthur? Takes me back.
With Joshua Redman too! And did you see the special with the Backstreet Boys? lol
Eric Fricke Art Garfunkel as well!
Can we have a whole album of this kind of raw recording? touches the soul.
Patty Hsieh: Great way for NPR to raise money. I’d definitely buy it!👍
If you are interested, yo yo ma has recorded all of the Bach cello suites. They are all 1 take recordings in a church or concert hall rather than a studio. My favorite album of his. You can find it on Amazon or streaming services.
Oooh those meaty, gritty tones in the C and G strings. This is why I love the cello and bass so much.
The cello is an extension of himself. Such a wonderful sound. Unparalleled and child's play to him. I want to wear headphones and soak this into my bones.
Thanks so much for your sweet words and support towards me
he plays with his whole soul, breathtaking
YO YO MA RULES!
I’m starting law school and I’m approaching my first midterm and hearing him reiterate that anything you learn is about taking it one bite at a time is really inspirational. Thanks, man. You’re awesome and you’re in West Wing. You truly do rule.
Hope your law school years passed with easy. Noel. One of Aaron's finest episodes. Painful but telling, open and revealing. Just like Yo Yo.
One of the most humble, sincere & grounded persons I’ve ever encountered.
Yo-Yo Ma, you always make me smile :)
Ma has made so many records and still chose to play another, the OG of OGs: Bach. selfless artistry.
I was lucky enough to watch Yo-Yo Ma perform live a few years ago. The very, very first thing he did/said, which was after he finished his first piece....was along the lines of standing up, take his microphone, gesturing to the rose bouquets on the far sides of the stage, and say "Aren't these flowers beautiful?" I feel that moment was very telling of his character. Both he and Yanni strike me very strongly as being world-renowned musicians who are also deeply invested in the very art and act of being human and celebrating humanity and the world we're lucky enough to live in.
I've always found Bach to be the most emotive of the composers, and Ma's raw talent certainly does justice to that aspect. That was wonderful, thanks for posting this.
Imagine having Yo-Yo Ma play at your wedding tho
Cyrah Contreras ...better than having him play your memorial.. ; )
memorial will do for me too
A Yo-Yo Ma CD played at my wedding ... does that count? :)
@@HiThereImFootloose YES.
I'll need a boyfriend first
pffffffffff LOL
His fingers hitting the fret board are so clean and crisp that you can actually hear the thump when his fingers hit! Nice!
This week has had Tower of Power, Erykah Badu and now Yo-Yo Ma. Someone needs a raise!!
My old viola instructor played many instruments and played alongside yo-yo ma. He gave me viola lessons for $25 because I paid for them on my own. He is a very sweet man! I owe Mr. Song a lot!
August 2024.Who's here? Yo Yo Ma is an incredible artist. I don't think I heard anyone who plays with such passions and beauty .....
The choice of artist, their performances, and the presentation of the videos are always amazing. The variety of genres and musicians is so refreshing
He is so philosophical! It seems like people who are experts in their craft tend to be philosophical
Oh, dear, what joy, what heights music gives us with people like Yo-Yo Ma, with ideas such as the Tiny Desk Concerts... thank you all. You make us better people through music.
I’m watching this November 2, 2020 to feel calm and happy.
I still think his Grammy-award-winning recording of the Bach Suites is the best of all time.
Yo-yo started at 4, I started at 8, and I idolize this man! So beautiful, effortless, and graceful.... One day, I hope to meet you!!!
Breathtaking, awesome, amazing. There is nothing more to say except Yoyo Ma is a gift to the music world.
Saw his very brief video clip playing cello alone outside Russia Embassy last week on YT, it tells a lot about him. What a respectful human being.
yo-yo ma’s playing always brings a tear to my eyes. such beauty, such expression. he puts me into a mental state i have never known
he should be invited back, this art is beautiful
i purchased the cd set when it first came out and have had to buy it again 3 times. by far my most favorite album. as for Yo-Yo Ma... all i can say is that the beauty of God is evident in you and your works... indeed... "you shall know them by their fruit"... thank you for bringing love and hope to us who love you dearly.❤
I’m not religious but that’s beautiful :)
that opening, accompanied by the falling of man. A meteor plummeting, holding hands with your loved ones, watching it all in its awe-full splendour, the fires ravaging, a flower visited by a bee. I felt the perfection of form, in its beautiful sadness. The dual purpose. From life, from death. Another step, just another step
What a legend. We’re so blessed to have him around.
You can tell he is a sweet and kind fellow. Thank you.
As a high-school cello player, watching this is like watching a lvl 90000000 7 time world champion gamer play when you're a noob.
As someone who started 30+ years ago, he still makes me feel like a noob.
Can you explain a bit more? To me it's just....good...
I like all music, and some classical music sometimes, but I can't feel what's so special about him.
@@destructoooo
Pacing, and phrasing.
Many string players always boast about intonation and how it's bad to be out of tune, as if intonation is the only important skill to master.
It requires wisdom to realize that great music is made by speaking the words and sentences the piece conveys with your instrument, rather than speaking the notes as they are written. Yo-Yo Ma plays like he is telling a story.
I am forever grateful for NPR. One of America's finest institutions
did not expect to be moved to tears by his music, yo yo always pulls on the heart
THE GREATEST TINY-DESK GIG EVER. BAR NONE. omg dat strad sound.........
Yo-Yo Ma is not only one of the most inspiring people musically, but also through his words!
A precious recording. I still come to listen to this a few times a year, to contemplate, to heal, and maybe shed a tear.
im sobbing, this is my first time watching his tiny desk and at the comfort of my home and on the other side of the world, war is happening. Listening to Sarabande while offering a silent prayer to those lives lost. I hope they find peace.
This wonderful man has done more for music than anybody else I can think of.
Through a cello like a god through a burning bush. He literally stretches out the moments of time, and imbues them with meaning. It's mathematically magical.
2:29 - This interlude is a piece on its own. It deserves a video for itself. What a class.
I am listening to this in 2024 and the feelings that it evokes in me are I am sure the same beautiful and heartfelt feelings that were felt by those who listened 9 years ago when it was first recorded.