Acclaimed cellist, Yo-Yo Ma, has been named the Creative Consultant to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

The position will put Ma in collaboration with another new member of the ensemble, Artistic Director Riccardo Muti, with the stated goal to “provide collaborative musical leadership and guidance on innovative program development for The Institute for Learning, Access and Training at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, as well as for CSO artistic initiatives” (CSO Press Release). Ma will also be in charge of creating new musical programs for children of the Chicago area.

Both men have a history of humanitarian efforts. Ma’s Silk Road Project, founded in 1998, has been successful in promoting multicultural musical collaboration, and has connected them with new listeners across the globe. In describing his long-time friend, and now partner in future efforts, Ma said:

“I have had the great pleasure and privilege of working with Maestro Muti on many occasions over the past 25 years… I am impressed and inspired by his passion, intellect and vitality. Along with his first love, music, Maestro Muti cares deeply about so many important issues of our day—our planet, our children and those less fortunate.”

Ma will assume his position in January 2010, Muti in September 2010.

For information, check out the link to the Chicago Classical Review’s coverage below.

Yo-Yo Ma named CSO consultant

Posted on December 20th, 2009 at 1:00 pm | Filed under General |