09.12.20 –
Berlin – The world-famous cellist Yo-Yo Ma is constantly exploring new musical landscapes. The music that is played along the historic Silk Road, for example, is as close to Ma as it is to Bach, Tango or Bossa Nova. The American has made more than 100 records and won 19 Grammys. With his new album, Ma reminds us of the binding power of music. This is especially necessary in times of Corona, says the 65-year-old. –
With his “Songs of Comfort and Hope”, Yo-Yo Ma plays 21 famous tracks on his instrument – from “Amazing Grace” to “Over the Rainbow”. In the pandemic, he said in an interview, the comforting effect of music can be felt. Lockdown and distance rules – everyday life often becomes a steady stream in these times. Without social contact, music can give the daily routine a new meaning.
From spirituals to the traditional English song “Scarborough Fair” or the musical hit “Ol ‘Man River” – the recording by the cellist and his long-time piano accompanist Kathryn Stott looks like a therapy session. “We need music to keep our balance,” says Ma.
At the same time, Ma wants to pay tribute to those who campaigned for justice, such as the Afro-American singer Paul Robeson or the Chilean interpreter Violeta Parra. There are also borrowings from classical music, Mendelssohn’s “Songs without words” or “Marietta’s song” from the opera “Die tote Stadt” by Erich Wolfgang Korngold.
The first kiss, the wedding, the loss of friends – such experiences are unthinkable without music, says the cellist. “We need music for our balance – in good times and in bad.”
- Songs of Comfort and Hope
- Release date: 12/11/2020
- Label : Sony Classical (Sony Music)
- ASIN : B08L3NW8SG
Create bookmark / search for post with
– – .
