Look at the piano. You'll notice that there are white notes and black notes. Figure out the difference between them and you'll be able to make whatever kind of music you want.

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

What the hell do you want to work for somebody else for? Work for yourself!

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

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.

An entire composition written in jazz could not live.

Life is a lot like jazz. It's best when you improvise.