The way to write American music is simple. All you have to do is be an American and then write any kind of music you wish.

I've never known a musician who regretted being one. Music itself is not going to let you down.

In Paris, you learn wit, in London you learn to crush your social rivals, and in Florence you learn poise.

Whatever deceptions life may have in store for you, music itself is not going to let you down.

Musicians own music because music owns them.

I listened to the pure crystalline notes of one of Mozart's concertos dropping at my feet like leaves from the trees.

I never learned to verbalize an abstract musical concept. No thank you. The whole point of being a serious musician is to avoid verbalization whenever you can.