Yo-Yo Ma gives surprise cello performance at vaccine centre after receiving his jab

Grammy-winning musician had received his second dose of the Covid vaccine

World-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma wowed onlookers at a vaccine site in Berkshire Community College, Massachusetts by delivering an impromptu performance last Saturday (13 March).

The multi-Grammy-winning musician was there to receive his second dose of the Covid vaccine.

After getting the jab, Ma performed for 15 minutes to those waiting in line after him. He played a setlist that contained pieces by Bach and Schubert.

Richard Hall, a member of the Berkshire Covid-19 Vaccine Collaborative, told the Berkshire Eagle that Ma had “wanted to give something back”.

Berkshire Community college shared footage of the performance on social media.

Read more:

• 5 key moments from Grammys 2021
• BTS fans claim K-pop stars were ‘taken advantage of’ after Grammys loss
• Full list of winners at the 2021 Grammys

The news prompted a warm reaction from state Representative William “Smitty” Pignatelli, who applauded the 65-year-old cellist for “bringing hope and optimism through his beautiful music”.

Ma has received 18 Grammy awards over the course of his long and illustrious career, which has seen him release more than 90 albums.

A performance of “Amazing Grace” by Ma was featured earlier this year in US President Joe Biden’s inauguration ceremony. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the performance was recorded before the event.

Last week, Ma directed a social media post at the United Nations, writing: “Our recovery starts with the equitable distribution of vaccines. #OnlyTogether can we end the pandemic.”