Composers in the old days used to keep strictly to the base of the theme, as their real subject. Beethoven varies the melody, harmony and rhythms so beautifully.

In him converge all previous streams of tendency, not as into a pool, stagnant, passive, motionless, but as a noble river that received its tributary waters and bearss them onward in larger and statelier volume.

I sometimes ponder on variation form and it seems to me it ought to be more restrained, purer.

To follow in Beethoven's footsteps transcends one's strength.

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

My things really are written with an appalling lack of practicality!

If there is anyone here whom I have not insulted, I beg his pardon.