I deny that either singers or conductors can "create" or work creatively - this, as I have always said, is a conception that leads to the abyss.

I order that my funeral ceremonies be extremely modest, and that they take place at dawn or at the evening Ave Maria, without song or music.

Of all composers, past and present, I am the least learned. I mean that in all seriousness, and by learning I do not mean knowledge of music.

Oh, you happy sons of the North who have been reared at the bosom of Bach, how I envy you!

The artist must yield himself to his own inspiraton, and if he has a true talent, no one knows and feels better than he what suits him.

Oh blessed a thousand times the peasant who is born, eats and dies without anybody bothering about his affairs.

The artist must yield himself to his own inspiration... I should compose with utter confidence a subject that set my musical blood going, even though it were condemned by all other artists as anti-musical.