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

Don't only practise your art, but force your way into its secrets.

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.

I would rather write 10,000 notes than a single letter of the alphabet.

It is my wish that you may have at better and freer life than I have had. Recommend virtue to your children; it alone, not money, can make them happy. I speak from experience; this was what upheld me in time of misery.

Don't only practice your art, but force your way into its secrets; art deserves that, for it and knowledge can raise man to the Divine.

I shall hear in heaven.