I don't know how it is, but the Germans are amazed at me and I am amazed at them for finding anything to be amazed about.

Here, whatever is not boring is not English.

Liszt commenting on the music of Frédéric Chopin: He confided . . . those inexpressible sorrows to which the pious give vent in their communication with their Maker. What they never say except upon their knees, he said in his palpitating compositions.

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

Yesterday's concert was a success. I hasten to let you know. I inform your Lordship that I was not a bit nervous and played as I play when I am alone. It went well... and I had to come back and bow four times.

As something has involuntarily crept into my head through my eyes,I love to indulge it, even though it may be all wrong.

Even in winter it shall be green in my heart.