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.

I am playing the violin, that's all I know, nothing else, no education, no nothing. You just practice every day.

A lot of people like to think that polio was a inspiration in what I do. I think that music has to do with what kind of passion do you have.

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

Another thing that I don't like to do is show too much how it goes. I do it once in a blue moon. Sometimes there are lessons when I don't pick up a violin at all.

One of the most important elements in teaching, conducting, and performing, all three, is listening.

The most important thing to do is really listen.