Ennio Morricone - Music for the Movies

How would you describe yourself?

I am the best in the world.

The theme tune to "Once upon a time in the West" is just one of hundreds of soundtracks composed by Morricone. The 75-year-old wrote scores for 400 films and was nominated five times for an Oscar. He has four children with his wife Maria Trava.

Naming his favourite music is simply too complicated.

His favourite books are Hungarian Literature.

His favourite food is his wife's artichokes.

What gives you the greatest joy?

There are so many things that make me happy. My family gives me great joy. I enjoy spending time with them - at home - most of all. I also love to write music. It is something that gives me great pleasure.

And what is your secret passion?

Precision. Sticking to my plans.

And who is your personal hero?

My teacher - the composer Goffredo Petrassi - taught me everything. He is my hero. When I compose I think of him. When I write a score he is always at my side.

And what makes a good frienship?

A good friendship should never be abused. You should never ask a good friend for anything unless it is offered. Then it is ok. I could never ask a friend for anything. That would mean I am using them. I simply couldn't do it.

Do you owe anyone a special thank you?

My wife. I have to thank her for her patience. She accepts me as I am. She is also under a lot of strain because of my work. I am very busy but she still stays with me.

Do you owe anyone a special apology?

I don't know. There is certainly someone but I can't think of anyone at the moment.

Do you have an unfulfilled dream?

There is always something one can still achieve in life. That is the same in my case. But at the present time I just don't know. I don't know what I still would like to do. But there must be something.

What do you treasure most?

My family!