I have a certain image that's more classic, and I'm happy to stay out of the fray.

My parents discussed singing every night over the dinner table; I had a tremendous music education.

I have not changed with the accomplishments. I've remained the same. If I had changed, great. You know, but I haven't.

I think opera has gained a kind of glamorous appeal. It's a live performance that aligns all of the arts, and when it is represented in the media, in film in particular, it is presented as something that is really a special event, whether it's a great date or something that's just hugely romantic.

Certainly, jazz has become more of a niche, which is surprising, because it's our music. It's the national music of America.

You finally have to learn to pull all the different kinds of teaching and training and coaching together on you own, so that your voice and body and technique for a sound that is consistent and solid.

I have a noble history of being rejected by a lot of places, only to discover that the one that finally lets me in is in fact the perfect fit.