There have been studies that clearly state that children who are exposed to arts education at a young age will in fact do markedly better in their SAT tests

I never took any vocal training

I don't think they understand it's as important as math and science. It rounds you out as a person. I think it gives you a love of certain things. You don't have to become the next great composer. It's just nice to have heard certain things or to have seen certain things. It's part of being a human being.

You mustn't underestimate an audience's intelligence.

As I get older, I'm slowing down and, yes, calming down in my desire to be taken seriously. That I can be entertaining and funny and high nervous energy can work against me as a serious composer, slowly but surely you'll see me be quieter just so that people will listen.

If I'm within reach and can be helpful, I have a tendency to say 'Yes.' It's hard to say 'No.

My whole thing is not just to play music for people, but to make them part of the evening.