One very important aspect of our contemporary musical culture - some might say the supremely important aspect - is its extension in the historical and geographical senses to a degree unknown in the past.

I frequently hear our present period described as uncertain, confused, chaotic.

I am optimistic about the future of music.

As interesting as that music can occasionally be, I don't think it really replaces the other.

I am certain that most composers today would consider today's music to be rich, not to say confusing, in its enormous diversity of styles, technical procedures, and systems of esthetics.

Perhaps of all the most basic elements of music, rhythm most directly affects our central nervous system.

I pick up the New York Times or Time and it's talking about the latest rock group, which I'm sure is exciting to some people, but it neglects a huge area of music.