Clarinet is an incredible instrument. It's a great, expressive instrument.

We still have to overcome the notion that a clarinet squeaks. People need to remember what a beautiful instrument it is, including in popular music.

The clarinet chose me more than I chose the clarinet.

Clarinet is often associated with certain genres, like swing or folk music. I combine the old and new, using the clarinet as an expressive tool and not in one genre. I'm just happy that people are drawn to what I do.

The clarinet has always been my baby. I just didn't know that for a while.

I'm working really hard to get the clarinet out of that hole, that Benny Goodman thing.