The purpose of art is not the release of a momentary ejection of adrenaline but is, rather, the gradual, lifelong construction of a state of wonder and serenity.

Isolation is the one sure way to human happiness.

Behind every silver lining, there's a cloud.

One does not play the piano with one's fingers: one plays the piano with one's mind.

I don't think any of the early Romantic composers knew how to write for the piano... The music of that era is full of empty theatrical gestures, full of exhibitionism, and it has a worldly, hedonistic quality that simply turns me off.

I don't much care for the sunlight or bright colours of any kind.