Nobility of spirit has more to do with simplicity than ostentation, wisdom rather than wealth, commitment rather than ambition.

A conductor should guide rather than command.

I don't want to bother them and ruin the party they are preparing so carefully at La Scala.

I have closed that page of my life without rancor. I do not disown any of the work done.

I'm not shy in the spotlight. I might seem austere and even arrogant, but far from it, I'm actually shy.

It is extraordinary to have time to again study Le nozze di Figaro and discover new things.

The conductor's stand is not a continent of power, but rather an island of solitude.

You have to be able to enthral and persuade at the same time.

You have to channel the interpretation and performance into 100 people. And with the audience, the critics.

Most problems in poor countries are locally generated even though international factors do play a role.

The first Western attempt to save Africa from itself was in the late 19th century. It was led by Christian missionaries who claimed to be seeking to end poverty, disease and the slave trade.