I also always carry my flute. It's very important for me to try to relax when I'm travelling, and playing my flute helps me to unwind.

When a little more than a teenager, I was a piano-bar pianist in the land where I was born and raised, Tuscany.

The most widely criticised singers in the history of opera, Maria Callas and Franco Corelli, happen also to be the best singers. I am honoured for being part of their group.

I first started playing in piano bars for three reasons - to make money, to be in the company of my friends - and also to hook up with young girls. I always knew, even before I played in piano bars, about the effect of my voice.

My real passion is for opera. It was born and developed by listening to records, and my dream as a child was to record entire operas when I grew up, and this dream came true.

It's important for me who is at the table with me; the moment when everyone speaks to each other and everyone listens. If there's good food, it's much better.

When I began singing, it was the first time I was happy in my life. As a baby, I would stop crying when I heard a great singer.