It is the melody which is the charm of music, and it is that which is most difficult to produce. The invention of a fine melody is a work of genius.
Joseph HaydnWhen I think of my God, my heart dances within me for joy, and then my music has to dance, too.
Joseph HaydnI tell you before God, and as an honest man, your son (W A Mozart)is the greatest composer known to me by person and repute, he has taste and what is more the greatest skill in composition.
Joseph HaydnNever was I so devout as when I composed The Creation. I knelt down each day to pray to God to give me strength for my work....When I was working on The Creation I felt so impregnated with Divine certainty, that before sitting down to the piano, I would quietly and confidently pray to God to grant me the talent that was needed to praise Him worthily.
Joseph Haydn