Before performing all six of Bach’s cello suites at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley, CA, Yo-Yo Ma joined local artists, activists, and community members in Oakland, CA for a celebration of culture and its power to help us imagine and build a better future. A block party in Old Oakland saw performances by JAX the Band, MC Hammer, 24/7 Turfin’ Dancers, Ajai Kasim, Gina Madrid, SOL Development, and Nick Reeves. In the afternoon, Yo-Yo Ma gave a master class to 100 students from local schools and ensembles, who also shared with him classical music arrangements. During a panel moderated by XQ CEO Russlynn Ali, Yo-Yo Ma spoke with Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf, Oakland School Board Vice President Jumoke Hinton Hodge, California Arts Council Chair Nashormeh Lindo, and local students to explore how creative expression can strengthen schools and provide students with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Discover more about the event at The Mercury News.