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.

There was no one near to confuse me, so I was forced to become original.

When I think of my God, my heart dances within me for joy, and then my music has to dance, too.

I was never a quick writer, but composed with great care and efforts.

The life's story of great geniuses is a sad one, without much tangible reward, which does not inspire future generations to face a similar fate. Alas also, it stands to reason why so many talent will not come to sparkle on the artistic firmanent.

I listened more than I studied... therefore little by little my knowledge and ability were developed.

Whenever I think of God I can only conceive of Him as a Being infinitely great and infinitely good. This last quality of the divine nature inspires me with such confidence and joy that I could have written even a miserere in tempo allegro.