Artists who have won fame are often embarrassed by it; thus their first works are often their best.

The vibrations on the air are the breath of God speaking to man's soul. Music is the language of God. We musicians are as close to God as man can be. We hear his voice, we read his lips, we give birth to the children of God, who sing his praise. That's what musicians are.

I have never thought of writing for reputation and honor. What I have in my heart must come out; that is the reason why I compose.

An artist is someone who has learned to trust in himself.

When I open my eyes I must sigh, for what I see is contrary to my religion, and I must despise the world which does not know that music is a higher revelation than all wisdom and philosophy.

My misfortune is doubly painful to me because it will result in my being misunderstood. For me there can be no recreation in the company of others, no intelligent conversation, no exchange of information with peers; only the most pressing needs can make me venture into society. I am obliged to live like an outcast.

Tones sound, and roar and storm about me until I have set them down in notes.