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I studied classical opera, so I was always singing in Italian and German and French.

I learned to speak Italian, somewhat. Definitely enough to get around in Italy. My grandfather always used to swear at my grandmother in Italian.

I don't profess to be Luciano Pavarotti, but I can hold a tune.

When I last went to Italy, over two years ago, I had a lot more trouble understanding the language than I used to when I lived there for a year. I used to speak very little but I could understand very well.

I had classical training but I don't consider myself an opera singer though.

When I finally decided to do the show, I only had two weeks to learn the choreography and the songs in French.

The Italians are not indulgent, as Americans are. They don't have the patience to teach young singers how to move. They think you should learn in school.

I grew up in a community that was bilingual. I've done it for a while, singing in both languages.

When I first began to learn to sing, it took me from three to four months to learn two simple hymns.