The idea comes to me from outside of me - and is like a gift. I then take the idea and make it my own - that is where the skill lies.

Those who enjoy their own emotionally bad health and who habitually fill their own minds with the rank poisons of suspicion, jealousy and hatred, as a rule take umbrage at those who refuse to do likewise, and they find a perverted relief in trying to denigrate them.

Straight-away the ideas flow in upon me, directly from God, and not only do I see distinct themes in my mind's eye, but they are clothed in the right forms, harmonies, and orchestration.

One should never forget that by actually perfecting one piece one gains and learns more than by starting or half-finishing a dozen.

Those are miracles that no merely human brain can work. The artist is merely the sound conduct of a Force that dictates to him what he should do.

The idea comes to me from outside of me - and is like a gift. I then take the idea and make it my own - that is where the skill lies.

It is a real pleasure to see music so bright and spontaneous expressed with corresponding ease and grace.