Beware of missing chances; otherwise it may be altogether too late some day.

I foster a sorrowful conception of affection. Make no sacrifices.

We need improvement in the style of performance. There is no more advantage in a musician who plays and conducts than in one who is only a beater of rhythm.

I did not compose my work as one might put on a church vestment... rather it sprung from the truly fervent faith of my heart, such as I have felt it since my childhood.

I find little in the works of Beethoven, Berlioz, Wagner and others when they are led by a conductor who functions like a windmill.

You cannot imagine how it spoils one to have been a child prodigy.

I am not fond of speaking about politics because I don't have in my possession an army of 200,000 soldiers.