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• 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.
  • On his life story