Ludwig van Beethoven

“Music is a higher revelation than all wisdom and philosophy.”

“To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable.”

“I will seize fate by the throat; it shall certainly not bend me completely to its will.”

“Music should strike fire from the heart of man, and bring tears from the eyes of woman.”

“What you are, you are by accident of birth; what I am, I am by myself. There are and will be a thousand princes; there is only one Beethoven.”

“Don't only practice your art, but force your way into its secrets; art deserves that, for it and knowledge can raise man to the Divine.”

“I would rather write 10,000 notes than a single letter of the alphabet.”

“Love demands all, and has a right to all.”

“Art! Who comprehends her? With whom can one consult concerning this great goddess?”

“I shall hear in heaven.”

“Music is the one incorporeal entrance into the higher world of knowledge which comprehends mankind but which mankind cannot comprehend.”

“Recommend to your children virtue; that alone can make them happy, not gold.”

“I have never thought of writing for reputation and honor. What I have in my heart must come out; that is the reason why I compose.”

“There is no loftier mission than to approach the Divinity nearer than other men, and to disseminate the divine rays among mankind.”

“The barriers are not erected which can say to aspiring talents and industry, 'Thus far and no farther.'”

“Only the pure of heart can make a good soup.”

“Applaud, my friends, the comedy is over.”