I think music is an instrument. It can create the initial thought patterns that can change the thinking of people.

Considering the great heritage in music that we have - the work of the giants of the past, the present, and the promise of those who are to come - I feel that we have every reason to face the future optimistically.

All a musician can do is to get closer to the sources of nature, and so feel that he is in communion with the natural laws.

Jazz is a word they use to sell our music, but to me that word does not exist.

The first time I heard Bird play, it hit me right between the eyes.

My music is the spiritual expression of what I am — my faith, my knowledge, my being...When you begin to see the possibilities of music, you desire to do something really good for people, to help humanity free itself from its hangups...I want to speak to their souls.

The reason I play so many sounds, maybe it sounds angry, is because I'm trying so many things at one time, you see? I haven't sorted them out. I have a whole bag of things that I'm trying to work through and get the one essential.