I don't feel that the conductor has real power. The orchestra has the power, and every member of it knows instantaneously if you're just beating time.

There are people who are uncanny, who are finished products at a young age. I wasn't, thank God.

So many things can drive you mad as a child, not only music.

Sometimes it is the artist's task to find out how much music you can still make with what you have left.

Competition can be the most nerve-racking experience. Some people just thrive on it.

I feel that you always pay when you are a child.

You decide to be a musician, you have to put in the time.