Our Common Nature West Virginia: Yo-Yo Ma and West Virginia Coal
Nov 5, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Yo-Yo Ma, the world-renowned cellist, reflects on the beauty and complexity of West Virginia, while Chris Saunders, a third-generation coal miner, shares personal stories of pride and hardship in the mining industry. Poet Crystal Good contributes powerful verses that express the community's resilience and struggles. The trio explores the cultural significance of music, the impact of coal mining disasters, and the healing power of nature, illustrating how art and expression can connect and uplift communities besieged by challenges.
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Childhood Song At The Company Store
- Diane Williams sang “16 Tons” as a child at the company store and got pennies for candy.
- That memory links music, miners, and the company-controlled social life in coal towns.
Coal's Dual Legacy
- Coal shaped West Virginia's economy, identity, and landscape for generations.
- That legacy creates pride even as the industry declines and causes deep harm.
Music Rooted In Family Mining Traditions
- Kathy Mattea grew up in musical family gatherings where miners told stories and played music.
- Those home performances launched her into playing guitar and singing publicly.