I picked them because they are good friends and a great trio.

The three conductors we have chosen to appear in the coming season have solid credentials and experience as music directors in their respective cities. I am excited, and I know our audiences will be, to hear these fine men in action and hear what they are able to achieve with the Philharmonic.

This is one ensemble concerto that's of real interest and not all that often done. It's also a great piece.

It's just a job you look forward to going to. It's not a drudgery job. You see your friends.

Some say that Jesus is the rock, or the anchor. I say that your friends and family are your anchor. And you can really hold their hands, not just sing about it. No disrespect to George Jones.

A few friends and me used to go and watch Bunuel, Carne, Cocteau... Cocteau and Bunuel were surrealism. And I was very excited by that. 'Un Chien Andalou', especially.