The first group of songs which I give, on any program, are songs which I sing to please myself. They represent my musical taste.

I live again the days and evenings of my long career. I dream at night of operas and concerts in which I have had my share of success. Now like the old Irish minstrel, I have hung up my harp because my songs are all sung.

He play'd an ancient ditty long since mute, In Provence call'd, "La belle dame sans merci."

And heaven had wanted one immortal song.

I can make the most tasteless reference at some point and then go into one of my most earnest songs of the repertoire.

I believe that true art is universal in its appeal.