Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone cover

Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone

Yo-Yo Ma · 2004

55 min · 19 tracks · classical

A sweeping orchestral experience that intertwines cinematic melodies with Yo-Yo Ma's expressive cello performances.

Why this album works

The album received critical acclaim for its lush interpretations of Morricone's compositions, highlighting the emotive power of film music. It peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Classical Crossover chart, illustrating the growing popularity of cross-genre collaborations in classical music during the early 2000s. Additionally, it reinforced Morricone's legacy as one of cinema's most influential composers.
Career context
By 2004, Yo-Yo Ma was already an established figure in classical music, known for his crossover projects. 'Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone' marked his exploration into film music, showcasing his versatility and expanding his repertoire beyond traditional classical boundaries. This album followed his Grammy-winning project 'Songs of Comfort and Hope', further solidifying his status as a dynamic artist.
Stylistic neighbors
Jean Sibelius· Hector Berlioz· musicAeterna

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Mission: Gabriel’s Oboe 3:13
  • 2 The Mission: The Falls 2:29
  • 3 Giuseppe Tornatore Suite: The Legend of 1900: Playing Love 1:49
  • 4 Giuseppe Tornatore Suite: Cinema Paradiso: Nostalgia 1:58
  • 5 Giuseppe Tornatore Suite: Cinema Paradiso: Looking for You 1:43
  • 6 Giuseppe Tornatore Suite: Malena: Main Theme 4:22
  • 7 Giuseppe Tornatore Suite: A Pure Formality: Main Theme 3:52
  • 8 Sergio Leone Suite: Once Upon a Time in America: Deborah’s Theme 3:32
  • 9 Sergio Leone Suite: Once Upon a Time in America: Cockeye’s Song 2:13
  • 10 Sergio Leone Suite: Once Upon a Time in America: Main Theme 1:49
  • 11 Sergio Leone Suite: Once Upon a Time in the West: Main Theme 3:21
  • 12 Sergio Leone Suite: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Ecstasy of Gold 3:59
  • 13 Brian De Palma Suite: Casualties of War: Main Theme 3:54
  • 14 Brian De Palma Suite: The Untouchables: Death Theme 3:15
  • 15 Moses and Marco Polo Suite: Moses: Journey 2:34
  • 16 Moses and Marco Polo Suite: Moses: Main Theme 2:07
  • 17 Moses and Marco Polo Suite: Marco Polo: Main Theme 3:25
  • 18 The Lady Caliph: Dinner 3:50
  • 19 The Lady Caliph: Nocturne 2:33

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata