When you have 13 horns, and one is soloing, you have 12 people to play the richest, fullest chord you could ever imagine behind that solo.

I don't think you can ever regain your ignorance.

I still prefer the bebop of the '40s. The very stuff I started out with is still the best to me. I have come full circle.

I don't need much coaxing.

Listening is more important than anything else because that's what music is. Somebody is playing something and you're receiving it. It is sending and receiving.

There are times when what's happening in rock is the best music in the world, and there are times when there is nothing worthwhile at all.

I got started when I was 3 years old because my father was a music teacher and my lessons were free. Instead of learning to walk, you learn to play the piano.