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

If we cannot write with the beauty of Mozart, let us at least try to write with his purity.

Study Bach. There you will find everything.

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.

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.

A symphony is no joke.

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