It is simple nonsense to speak of the fixed tempo of any particular vocal phrase. Each voice has its peculiarities.

The composers could no longer direct all performances in person, and so the responsibility of interpreting their works in the spirit in which they had been conceived was placed upon conductors.

Composers are not all good conductors.

The ability to conduct is a gift of God with which few have been endowed in full measure.

The conductor's gift does not always go hand in hand with that of composition; indeed, the union is found much more seldom than is popularly believed.

America does not need gorgeous halls and concert rooms for its musical development, but music schools with competent teachers, and many, very many, free scholarships for talented young disciples who are unable to pay the expense of study.

Of course, experience strengthens one later.