The world is a king, and like a king, desires flattery in return for favor; but true art is selfish and perverse — it will not submit to the mold of flattery.

Händel is the greatest and ablest of all composers; from him I can still learn.

Music is the one incorporeal entrance into the higher world of knowledge which comprehends mankind but which mankind cannot comprehend.

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.

Fate gave to man the courage of endurance.

Art! Who comprehends her? With whom can one consult concerning this great goddess?

There ought to be only one large art warehouse in the world, to which the artist could carry his art-works and from which he could carry away whatever he needed. As it is one must be half a tradesman.