I think if there's ever been a time we need music more, it's now. For our kids, it teaches you to take time, to listen, to work together, to listen to other people, and to use your brain. That's why classical music doesn't work when you throw it at people in a subway platform while they're rushing to work. Classical music is something that needs to be contemplated, you have to be completely present with an active mind that's working. It's not background music.

When you play for ticket-holders, you are already validated. I have no sense that I need to be accepted. I'm already accepted.

Over the years, I've collected a lot of musical friends.

At a music hall, I'll get upset if someone coughs or if someone's cellphone goes off.

I like trying things, I am kind of adventurous and I like thrill seeking.

I hope I will always have the chance to play the violin.

Conducting is a strange thing to teach.