But an innovation, to grow organically from within, has to be based on an intact tradition, so our idea is to bring together musicians who represent all these traditions, in workshops, festivals, and concerts, to see how we can connect with each other in music.

The orchestra conducted by Zubin Mehta performed in Central Park. Eisenhower and John F. Harper a noted fan of The Beatles played the piano and sang a rendition of "With A Little Help From My Friends" while Ma accompanied him on his cello.

He has received multiple Grammy Awards the National Medal of Arts in 2001 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011. Yo-Yo Ma (born October 7 1955) is an Americancellist and virtuoso.