My early life was full of music because my sisters played the piano and I started playing at three.

My daughter is my greatest gift and, not to be corny, but my greatest teacher.

I realized that all you have to do is state what you need and figure out how to get it, and be kind and help other people move forward. Check your jealousy, which is always present, and the threat of the younger generation coming forward as they must do.

I read a lot. I especially read memoirs and biographies. It's very helpful when you're thinking about what's possible and what exists in human behavior; if it exists out there then it can exist on the stage. I really try to go to a lot of concerts. A lot of live events. I just try to keep my ears really, really open.

I have never relied on anyone else for money since I graduated, and that made me feel grown up.

I've been really opinionated my whole life. I was raised to be opinionated. I was raised to debate at the dinner table - my father demanded it - and you had to be able to debate in a confident and clear way.

I'd been trained as a classical musician, but also as a pop musician. My teacher made sure that everything was available.