Writing music is not so much inspiration as hard work.

I didn't even start playing the piano until I was about 13 or 14. I guess I must have had a little talent or whatever-you-call-it, but I practised regularly, and that's what counts.

I want to say at once that I frankly believe that Irving Berlin is the greatest songwriter that has ever lived.... His songs are exquisite cameos of perfection, and each one of them is as beautiful as its neighbor. Irving Berlin remains, I think, America's Schubert.

When I'm in my normal mood, music drips from my fingers.

Jazz I regard as an American folk music; not the only one, but a very powerful one which is probably in the blood and feeling of the American people more than any other style of folk music.

For suddenly, I saw you there And through foggy London town The sun was shining everywhere.

Jazz is one of the best things that you can find in your life, it can always be your friend.