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.

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

Great music is that which penetrates the ear with facility and leaves the memory with difficulty. Magical music never leaves the memory.

Music first and last should sound well, should allure and enchant the ear. Never mind the inner significance.

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

I have just been all round the world and have formed a very poor opinion of it.

There are no woman composers, never have been and possibly never will be.