Too many composers become involved in intellectual speculation which seems to matter more to them than the sound that comes out of all this speculation.
- Louise TalmaPeople compose for many reasons: to become immortal; because the pianoforte happens to be open; because they want to become a millionaire; because of the praise of friends; because they have looked into a pair of beautiful eyes; for no reason whatsoever.
- Robert A. SchumannComposers should write tunes that chauffeurs and errand boys can whistle.
- Sir Thomas Beecham