Love, love, love, that is the soul of genius.

All I insist on, and nothing else, is that you should show the whole world that you are not afraid. Be silent, if you choose; but when it is necessary, speak—and speak in such a way that people will remember it.

Write to me and don't be so lazy. Otherwise I shall have to give you a thrashing. What fun! I'll break your head.

I am never happier than when I have something to compose, for that, after all, is my sole delight and passion

Handel understands effect better than any of us -- when he chooses, he strikes like a thunderbolt.

I never lie down at night without reflecting that, young as I am, I may not live to see another day.

Music is my life and my life is music.