There is more openness in LA to possibilities than on the East Coast of America. There is a pioneering spirit there that stems from the reason people went out there in the first place-to find something new.

Orchestras have become used to the emphasis on the separation of layers, of the ultimate precision and clarity.

I actually don't like this term, "classic." It's wrong, but we don't have a better word at the moment.

With American orchestras, in particular, because they play in such huge halls, getting a true pianissimo is very hard.

I'm composing more than before. I'm cutting down on conducting.

I like this idea of identification with the local team. I think it's great. That's what an orchestra should be. It's an orchestra for its hometown, and it serves the people.

The classical music industry, has been an industry of covers. So we do covers, and if I compare this with the rock and pop side, what is the most exciting event?