When I started learning the cello, I fell in love with the instrument because it seemed like a voice - my voice.

The cello is a hero because of its register - its tenor voice. It is a masculine instrument, whereas the violin is feminine because of its soprano pitch. When the cello enters in the Dvorak Concerto, it is like a great orator.

It is my aim, my destination in life to make the cello as beloved an instrument as the violin and piano.

The cello is the most perfect instrument aside from the human voice.

If I make a speech, I need a translator. But music does not need a translation. People understand me through the sound. That I think is very important. This is just one planet, like one family.

Explain to me, please, why in our literature and art so often people absolutely incompetent in this field have the final word.