Out of my entire annual output of songs, perhaps two, or at the most three, came as a result of inspiration. We can never rely on inspiration. When we most want it, it does not come.

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

Out of my entire annual output of songs, perhaps two, or at the most three, came as a result of inspiration. We can never rely on inspiration. When we most want it, it does not come.

The extraordinary thing about my mother, she's so modest about me.

It took me three weeks to write the 'Rhapsody in Blue.' I had always wanted to write something blue and Paul Whiteman inspired.

It sounds simple, of course, but personally I can think of no more mentally arduous task than making music.

All great composers of the past spent most of their time studying. Feeling alone won't do the job. A man also needs technique.