Yo-Yo Ma made his first recordings in 1979. In 1980, he formed an exclusive relationship with the Sony Classical recording company (at that time, CBS Masterworks), for which he has produced well over fifty issues. His recordings include most of the standard cello repertoire –solo, concerto, and chamber — as well as less-known works and contemporary compositions written especially for him. In the 1980s, he developed a performing rapport with pianist Emanuel Ax, violinist Isaac Stern, and violinist/violist Jaime Laredo. Their recordings together are still hailed as among the best of the genre. More recently, Ma has made recordings on a Baroque-period cello. Ma has also performed and made recordings of the crossover and world genres. Among these are a collaboration with singer/composer Bobby McFerrin; two recordings of Japanese melodies; the “Appalachian” series, with violinist/bluegrass fiddler Marc O’Connor and composer/double bass player Edgar Meyer; tango recordings with — and in tribute to — Argentinian music pioneer Astor Piazzolla; the Silk Road Project recordings; and Ma’s recent work with Brazilian musicians, featuring sambas, bossa novas, and other Brazilian music. Ma has currently won fifteen Grammys and numerous other awards. He has performed for eight American presidents, most recently at the invitation of President Obama on the occasion of the 56th Inaugural Ceremony. In 2009, Ma released Songs of Joy & Peace, and he continues to tour the world.