Johannes Brahms

“It is not hard to compose, but it is wonderfully hard to let the superfluous notes fall under the table.”

“My tunes float in the air, right in the streets.”

“Straight-away the ideas flow in upon me, directly from God, and not only do I see distinct themes in my mind's eye, but they are clothed in the right forms, harmonies, and orchestrations.”

“A symphony is no joke.”

“We are too often double-faced, and do not speak out.”

“Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind.”

“I shall never compose a symphony! You have no idea how it feels to hear behind you the tramp of a giant like Beethoven.”

“If there is anyone here whom I have not insulted, I beg his pardon.”

“The idea comes to me from God, the Divine.”

“Simplicity is not a simple thing.”

“I have traveled, I have seen and I have admired. How can I be tired of life?”

“I played over the music of that scoundrel Brahms. What a giftless bastard!”