To understand Mozart's contradictory qualities would indeed be to understand genius.

In the nineteenth century the more grandiose word inspiration began to replace the word idea in the arts.

I strongly suggest that we play down basics like who influenced whom, and instead study the way the influence is transformed, in other words: how the artist made it his own.

I don't dare postulate about science, but I know that it takes both emotion and intellect in order for art to happen.

As I sit down and start to work, I often panic. I stare at the empty piece of music paper. How can I say that my piece will be ready for performance next January when I do not have a recipe for making it happen?

I still do not know where the notes will come from when I accept a commission for a new work.

Truth implies meaning.