Play always as if in the presence of a master.

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

Remember, there are more people in the world than yourself. Be modest! You have not yet invented nor thought anything which others have not thought or invented before. And should you really have done so, consider it a gift of heaven which you are to share with others.

"We liked it" or "I didn't like it" people say. As if it were nothing higher than to please the people!

Mendelssohn I consider the first musician of the day; I doff my hat to him as my superior. He plays with everything, especially with the grouping of the instruments in the orchestra, but with such ease, delicacy and art, with such mastery throughout.

If we were all determined to play the first violin we should never have an ensemble. therefore, respect every musician in his proper place.

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.