The role of an orchestra in the 21st century isn't just playing, it's about developing future audiences and performers.

There is no 'perfect' in music. If I ever came off the stage and felt it could not be better, it would then be time to quit.

We need music to restore the human spirit

On the corner of 57th and 7th Avenue sits the most famous concert hall in the world. No less a figure than when Tchaikovsky led the first performances in 1891. Virtually every major artist has performed there. There is simply no place like it. The first time I stepped foot in Carnegie Hall was in 1964.

How could a New Yorker possibly take something called the Hollywood String Quartet seriously?

I'll know I'm reaching the total American market when I'm asked to do a video for MTV.

I am usually cooking at least four times a week if I am home. The easiest thing that I do a lot is gazpacho. It's simple and it tastes best if you let it sit over night in the refrigerator... I don't want anybody near me when I am cooking. If I am going to make a mistake, it has to be my fault.