I think my mother, more than anyone, knew the importance of inspiration. If it was occurring, you had to use it.

I want to carve out a serious period of time to focus on the next opera without any distractions. And to do that you need money.

I like to try new things.

My love of classical hit pretty early. I was 13 when it occurred, and that was really the only music I listened to for many, many years. I went to a conservatory, but I always knew I would be in the pop world, because A) it was more fun and B) you didn't have to practice as much and you could go out more. But I immediately saw this opportunity to inject my material with these sounds that most members of my generation really didn't know about, so it was a great way to differentiate myself from the pack.

My mother's songs are really turning out to be masterpieces. I have inherited this incredible legacy and am so fortunate to bathe in her sensibilities. It is tinged with tragedy. I'd much rather she was here in person, but there is still a positive force to come out of her death and that is having the gift of music that she gave.

I have this horrible, horrible habit of going on YouTube and checking out comments about what I do.

There is this church that I go to a lot in New York. I'm not religious but I love lighting candles and stuff. I find it useful.