Ma, one of the most popular classical musicians in the world, is known for his performances in recital, with chamber groups, and as soloist with orchestra. Since 1998, he has been the major force behind the Silk Road Project, which documents and performs the music of the cultures along the ancient Silk Road from the Mediterranean to China.

Ma's 50 albums include Appalachian, Brazilian, and Baroque music, as well as the standard classical repertoire; his most recent recording for Sony Classical features the music of film composer Ennio Morricone.

In 2005, Ma's appearances include a duo recital with Daniel Barenboim in Chicago on January 16 and a performance of the Dvoršk Cello Concerto with the Baltimore Symphony on February 4. In April, he performs with the Silk Road Ensemble in Chicago, New York, and Washington.