You find Jews, Irish, and Italians in every orchestra.

I know so many Irish musicians. They're all over, because there has been so much emigration from Ireland. Like the Jews.

Live life to the full, and become more curious every day. The more you find out about life, the richer your music-making will be.

You don't go out and play Beethoven's 'Opus 111' without having rethought about it every time you play.

Every note is a lifetime for itself.

There are many wonderful orchestras in the world, but very few who have a character or personality of their own. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is one of them, and I think it very important to recognize and respect that character.