Modern European composers:have very largely received their stimulus, their rhythms and impulses from Machine Age America. They have a much older tradition of musical technique which has helped them put into musical terms a little more clearly the thoughts that originated here. They can express themselves more glibly.

Jazz I regard as an American folk music; not the only one, but a very powerful one which is probably in the blood and feeling of the American people more than …

Not many composers have ideas. Far more of them know how to use strange instruments which do not require ideas.

The composer does not sit around and wait for an inspiration to walk up and introduce itself:Making music is actually little else than a matter of invention ai…

To be a catalyst is one of my life's objectives. I've been inspired by many people who in turn have been catalysts. It's very interesting to see the waves of i…

'Most people have music in the center of their lives. I believe my work sheds light on how music affects us and why it is so influential.' from http://www.ucla…

I totally related to Cole Porter's magnetic pull to any piano that was in the room, which he was famous for doing, as was Gershwin. You couldn't drag them away…