If you see me once, you cannot confuse me with another.

Music making is the most joyful activity possible, the most perfect expression of any emotion.

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.

If your body is not in shape to sing [from the diaphragm] you will push and push but keep falling back on your throat to make the sound. This will ruin your voice.

People have a right to criticize.

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

On the day I'm performing, I don't hear anything anyone says to me.