Here’s a link to a great article in the May 2, 2013 Chicago Tribune, written by Mark Caro. Caro reports on a collaboration between renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma and the Chicago Civic Orchestra. The article describes Yo-Yo Ma’s “challenge” to the orchestra to play Beethoven’s Sixth Symphony, with no conductor, by memory. The significance of this lies in the subtleties of interpretation, and listening skills and sensitivity of the musicians to each other. Also mentioned are Ma’s thoughts on creativity, developing the skills necessary to become a successful professional musician, and the need to anticipate the needs of the modern classical music industry and audience. All around a good read!
