For the shallow delights of matrimony and opera I have no courage.

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.

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

A symphony is no joke.

Straightaway the ideas flow in upon me, directly from God.

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

Never criticize the composition of a Royal Highness. You never know who may have written it.