I am really quite fascinated by echo-locating bats and dolphins and have always wondered how sound affects the unconscious brain.

A large part of my work has been collaborating with composers; I think we've commissioned about 140 pieces now, a lot of them percussion concertos.

The human body and mind are tremendous forces that are continually amazing scientists and society. Therefore, we have no choice but to keep an open mind as to what the human being can achieve.

If we see someone in a wheelchair, we assume they cannot walk. It may be that they can walk three, four, five steps. That, to them, means they can walk.

Hearing is a form of touch. You feel it through your body, and sometimes it almost hits your face.

Percussion is the most adaptable family of instruments. The biggest challenge is to project percussion in a lyrical way.

Concerts have to be seen as a real event for which the aim is to try and feed everybody.