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

I am a very simple person. In spite of all that has happened to me, I have tried to remain the simple person I started out.

The music itself could never take the place of my own passion in life.

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

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

I am open to everything.

If children are not introduced to music at an early age, I believe something fundamental is actually being taken from them.