The flame that is naturally clear always gives the most light and heat. If I could blend my talent for poetry and music into one, the light would burn still clearer, and I might go far.

Nothing right can be accomplished in art without enthusiasm.

The principal mark of genius is not perfection, but originality.

My heart pounds sickeningly and I turn pale... I often feel as if I were dead... I seem to be losing my mind.

Endeavour to play easy pieces well and with elegance; that is better than to play difficult pieces badly.

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

People compose for many reasons, to become immortal; because the piano happens to be open; because they want to become a millionaire; because of the praise of friends; because they have looked into a pair of beautiful eyes; or for no reason whatsoever.