An evil fate has deprived me of the full use of my right hand, so that I am not able to play my compositions as I feel them. The trouble with my hand is that certain fingers have become so weak, probably through writing and playing too much at one time, that I can hardly use them.

You will be most readily cured of vanity or presumption by studying the history of music, and by hearing the master pieces which have been produced at different periods.

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

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

Music owes as much to Bach as religion to its founder.

Thus it is ever in life. The aims we once pursued no longer satisfy us; we aim, we strive, we aspire, until sight fails, and mind and body find rest in the grave.

We shouldn't repeat the same for ages on end, but look into the new as well.