"The whole world loves American movies, blue jeans, jazz and rock and roll. It is probably a better way to get to know our country than by what politicians or airline commercials represent."

"When I was a young musician, the only option available to pursue secondary education in music was to attend a classical conservatory."

"Don't make music for some vast, unseen audience or market or ratings share or even for something as tangible as money. Though it's crucial to make a living, that shouldn't be your inspiration. Do it for yourself."

"Like family, we are tied to each other. This is what all good musicians understand."

"By polluting clear water with slime you will never find good drinking water."

"It is a enduring truth that an idea is a delicate seed; water it with curiosity and protect it from cynicism — an essential principle for the reflective life."

"Why can't I just eat my waffle?"

"Well, we lost a lot of our independence already. We are dependent on China for credit. We are dependent on Middle Eastern countries for energy supplies. And many Americans are dependent on the government for their income, health care, education of their children, food stamps."