There are two golden rules for an orchestra: start together and finish together. The public doesn't give a damn what goes on in between.

It is quite untrue that British people don't appreciate music. They may not understand it but they absolutely love the noise it makes.

"Have you heard any Stockhausen?" Beecham was asked. "No, but I believe I have stepped in some."

The British like any kind of music so long as it is loud.

In the first movement alone, I took note of six pregnancies and at least four miscarriages.

Magical music never leaves the memory.

I find brass bands have a melancholy sound. All right out of doors, of course - fifty miles away. Like bagpipes, they turn what had been a dream into a public nuisance.