I occasionally play works by contemporary composers and for two reasons. First to discourage the composer from writing any more and secondly to remind myself how much I appreciate Beethoven.

If I don't practice one day, I know it; two days, the critics know it; three days, the public knows it.

There is no top. There are always further heights to reach.

I have discovered three things which know no geographical borders - classical music, American jazz, and applause as the sign of the public's favor.

Can you appreciate music without playing it? Yes, you can. You can appreciate baseball without playing it. Many people attend a football game merely for the crowd, the excitement, the color.

Criticism does not disturb me, for I am my own severest critic. Always in my playing I strive to surpass myself, and it is this constant struggle that makes music fascinating to me.

No matter what side of the argument you are on, you always find people on your side that you wish were on the other.

Born in Russia, first lessons at three, debut in Russia at seven, debut in America in 1917. That's all there is to say, really.