In order to compose, all you need to do is remember a tune that nobody else has thought of.

To send light into the darkness of men's hearts - such is the duty of the artist.

We may be sure that a genius like Mozart, were he born today, would write concertos like Chopin and not like Mozart.

We have learned to express the more delicate nuances of feeling by penetrating more deeply into the mysteries of harmony.

The poet sees better than other mortals. I do not see things as they are, but according to my own subjective impression, and this makes life easier and simpler.

If, while at the piano, you attempt to form little melodies, that is very well; but if they come into your mind of themselves, when you are not practising, you may be still more pleased; for the internal organ of music is then roused in you. The fingers must do what the head desires; not the contrary.

That first concept is alway the most naturally and best. The mind errs, the emotion never.