My manuscripts sleep, while I cannot, for I am covered with poultices.

To be a great composer requires immense experience... One acquires this by listening not only to other men's work, but above all to one's own!

I feel like a novice, just as I felt before I knew anything of the keyboard. It is far too original, and I shall end up not being able to learn it myself.

There are certain times when I feel more inspired, filled with a strong power that forces me to listen to my inner voice, and when I feel more need than ever for a Pleyel piano.

Nothing is more odious than music without hidden meaning.

Even in winter it shall be green in my heart.

Bach is like an astronomer who, with the help of ciphers, finds the most wonderful stars.