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

Try a thing you haven't done three times. Once, to get over the fear of doing it. Twice, to learn how to do it. And a third time to figure out whether you like it or not.

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

Verbal communication about music is impossible except among musicians.

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.