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

The European boys have small ideas but they sure know how to dress 'em up.

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

The composer does not sit around and wait for an inspiration to walk up and introduce itself...Making music is actually little else than a matter of invention aided and abetted by emotion. In composing we combine what we know of music with what we feel.

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.

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

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