The saxophone is actually a translation of the human voice, in my conception. All you can do is play melody. No matter how complicated it gets, it's still a melody.

I never consciously tried to conceive of what my sound should be.

There are four qualities essential to a great jazzman. they are taste, courage, individuality, and irreverence.

I practiced saxophone eight hours a day for the first two years I played.

Other than conversation, no other art form can give the satisfaction of spontaneous interaction like Jazz.

Switch to piano! No. Really, if you like an instrument that sings, play the saxophone. At its best it's like the human voice. Of course, it would be best if you could actually sing with your own voice. The saxophone is an imperfect instrument, especially the tenor and soprano, as far as intonation goes. Therefore, the challenge is to sing on an imperfect instrument or 'voice' that is outside of your body. I love that challenge and have for over forty-five years. As far as playing jazz, no other art form, other than conversation, can give the satisfaction of spontaneous interaction.

I learn something new every day.