The fact that most people do not understand and respect the very best things, such as Mozart's concertos, is what permits men like us to become famous.

How lucky is the man who, like Mozart and others, goes to the tavern of an evening and writes some fresh music. For he lives while he is creating.

It is not hard to compose but it is wonderfully hard to let the superfluous notes fall under the table. . . So many melodies fly about, one must be careful not to tread on them.

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

It is not hard to compose, but what is fabulously hard is to leave the superfluous notes under the table.

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.

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