If she is attractive, I can't perform with her; if she is not, then I won't.

The function of music is to release us from the tyranny of conscious thought.

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.

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

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

Elgar's first symphony is the musical equivalent of St Pancras Railway Station.

Brass bands are all very well in their place - outdoors and several miles away.