The discipline of practice every day is essential. When I skip a day, I notice a difference in my playing. After two days, the critics notice, and after three days, so does the audience.

There is no such thing as perfection, there are only standards. And after you have set a standard you learn that it was not high enough. You want to surpass it.

I have discovered three things which know no geographical borders - classical music, American jazz, and applause as the sign of the public's favor.

No matter what side of the argument you are on, you always find people on your side that you wish were on the other.

There is no top. There are always further heights to reach.

I occasionally play works by contemporary composers and for two reasons. First to discourage the composer from writing any more and secondly to remind myself how much I appreciate Beethoven.

Practice like it means everything in the world to you. Perform like you don't give a damn.