I established a certain standard of behavior, that, during my playing, there must be no talking.

The ultimate necessity is the summoning of the mind and will to do their duty.

If I miss one day of practice, I notice it. If I miss two days, the critics notice it. If I miss three days, the audience notices it.

There have been a few moments when I have known complete satisfaction, but only a few. I have rarely been free from the disturbing realization that my playing might have been better.

The culture of any country is gauged first by its progress in art.

When I miss a week in practice, my audience knows it. When I miss a day, I know it.

When one is an artist, what else can he be?