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.

When I think upon my God, my heart is full of joy that the notes dance and leap from my pen.

I would give my best quartet for a good razor.

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.

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

Never 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.

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