Children should be given the chance to play instruments, to sing.

It is not always a matter of wild ovations and legendary performances. Sometimes you are just happy to get through an opera without trouble.

You don't need any brains to listen to music.

People think I'm disciplined. It is not discipline. It is devotion. There is a great difference.

Opera is one of the most important art forms. It should be listened to and appreciated by everyone.

I want to be famous everywhere.

You never know what little bundle of encouragements artists carry around with them, what little pats on the back from what hands, what newspaper clipping, what word of hope from what teacher. I suppose the so-called faith in ourselves is the foundation of our talent, but I am sure these encouragements are the mortar that holds it together.