Beginner’s Mind - Words + Music (by Yo-Yo Ma)
Audible produces a Words + Music series, which allows listeners to consume a brief overview of various music artists. I enjoyed learning about legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma in this Audible Original, Beginner’s Mind. Yo-Yo Ma immediately had my attention when the audiobook opened with him describing a remote home he and his wife enjoy that is immersed in nature. He eloquently described the restorative process he enjoys by spending time in nature and away from social obligations. He shared about his family’s background and immigration to the United States when he was seven years old. Yo-Yo Ma told a funny story of how he became interested in the cello. As a person who appreciates mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, I admired his explanation of how he approaches playing the cello after all of these years. He explained that each time he plays, he perceives it as his first experience — with a beginner’s mind.
Yo-Yo Ma goes on to talk about marrying his wife, Jill, and their children. He shares about his musical journey and relationships with people he has professionally collaborated with. Before listening to this audiobook, I knew very little about Yo-Yo Ma, but it gave me a great introduction to him as a person, not just his music. I love that Yo-Yo Ma narrates the audiobook. There’s nothing better than hearing the story directly from the artist. It is beautifully produced with his music being played between segments of narrative.
I thought I would close with a video of Yo-Yo Ma performing Bach: Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major, Prelude.
Currently, there are 40 episodes in the Words + Music series. I’ve also written reviews for other artists I’ve listened to. Check them out below!
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