All singers must be crazy. But we're a nice family of crazy people

Technique is the basis of every pursuit. If youre a sportsman or youre a singer or a swimmer, well that comes under sport but you have to develop a basic technique to know what youre doing at any given time.

If I weren't reasonably placid, I don't think I could cope with this sort of life. To be a diva, you've got to be absolutely like a horse.

My voice was obviously God given and I have tried to give of myself honestly.

I'm very happy to sing whatever I'm singing. I've always enjoyed any role I've been given at a certain time. They've all been favourites, they've all been wonderful pieces to play.

I don't sing for anybody. I wouldn't sing for the Queen dear.

I know I'm not exactly a bombshell, but one has to make the best of what one's got.