I am resolved to rise superior to every obstacle. With whom need I be afraid of measuring my strength? I will take Fate by the throat. It shall not overcome me. O how beautiful it is to be alive - would that I could live a thousand times!

I alter some things, eliminate and try again until I am satisfied. Then begins the mental working out of this material in its breadth, its narrowness, its height and depth.

ever thine, ever mine, ever ours

What is to reach the heart must come from above; if it does not come from thence, it will be nothing but notes, body without spirit.

Only the flint of a man's mind can strike fire in music.

Music is the mediator between the life of the senses and the life of the spirit.

Applaud my friends, the comedy is over... [on his death bed]