My biggest musical dream is to keep playing all my life. There's nothing bigger than that and that's very challenging because you have to satisfy yourself at every stage.

To be nice to people and make them happy - that's my philosophy in life.

Challenges are the key in life. You always have to challenge yourself and try to get to different states.

I started to listen to Japanese jazz musicians when I went to high school. Some people I listened to were Yosuke Yamashita, Toshiko Akiyoshi, Sadao Watanabe.

Individuality and originality is was separates good and great artists! How much they can move people with what they do! If they can shake the heart with what they do, is the key!

I'm always hungry to learn. I always look for something that I can study.

Everything is inspiring! It could be fine art or a conversation I have with somebody!