Yo-Yo Ma, the renowned cellist whose career has spanned more than six decades, continues to blend artistry with curiosity as he marks his 70th birthday. Known not only for his technical mastery but also for his wide-ranging humanitarian efforts, Ma’s approach to music and life remains driven by an enduring desire to connect with people and explore new ideas.

Born in France to Chinese immigrant parents, Ma first came to the United States at age seven and quickly attracted the attention of notable musicians, including Pablo Casals. By his early teens, he was performing for prominent figures such as President John F. Kennedy. Yet, despite early acclaim as a prodigy and a promising path in classical music, Ma questioned the conventional pursuit of achievement while studying at Juilliard. “We live in a world of people saying, ‘I need to achieve, achieve, achieve,’” he reflected. Seeking a broader perspective, Ma earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Harvard, a field that has continued to influence his outlook and career.

Throughout his life, Ma has combined his musical talents with collaborative projects that reflect his interest in cultural exchange and community engagement. His Silkroad Ensemble, founded in the late 1990s, highlights music’s role in bridging cultures. Recent initiatives like the Bach Project and Our Common Nature further demonstrate his commitment to creating shared experiences both onstage and outdoors.

Ma’s concerts often transcend traditional performances, incorporating storytelling and audience participation. For example, during a comprehensive recital of Bach’s cello suites in Boston last fall, he invited attendees to imagine the futures they hoped for their communities in 2050, blending music with dialogue and even performing alongside the city’s mayor. Nonetheless, his programming has faced some criticism for occasionally appearing dated or overly idealistic, and not all experimental formats have been universally praised—such as a theatrical recital staged at the Grand Ole Opry earlier this year that struggled with coherence.

Technically, Ma acknowledges the challenges that come with age. Observers have noted imperfections in his tone and bow control in recent performances, including adjustments made during a rendition of Dvorak’s Cello Concerto with the Colorado Symphony. Despite this, his enthusiasm for performing remains robust. With a full schedule of engagements, Ma jokes about being “retired” in the sense that he now chooses projects freely, yet his restless intellect and curiosity keep him actively engaged.

“I hope that I will stay curious until I die,” Ma said during a recent interview while on tour in Denver. Even at 70, the celebrated cellist persists in asking questions—not only of himself but of those around him—continually seeking fresh connections through his music and beyond.