I was trying to do something that seemed very natural and easy but which bridged that gulf between the singing voice and the speaking voice.

Most of the important composers in our country are clustered in the Northeast.

It seems to me opera is just as relevant as an expressive art as anything else.

If something is successful with the audience, it's automatically suspect; the reverse is to say that not to reach audiences is the greatest compliment an artist can receive!

I had all the normal interests - I played basketball and I headed the school paper. But I also developed very early a great love for music and literature and the theater.

There is something inherent in our democracy that tends to want to level. America is a little uncomfortable in the presence of someone who is distinctly superior in whatever way.

If an American audience is given a serious musical theater piece that is well produced, dramatically gripping and wonderfully acted, they'll respond to it.