Johannes Brahms

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

It is not hard to compose, but what is fabulously hard is to leave the superfluous notes under the table.

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 orchestration.

I had been attempting novels since I was 14 but always ran out of steam. High hopes, poor craftsmanship.

To jump and break the sound barrier will not be a mere record breaking experience or another extreme event that ends once the mission is accomplished.

I think a lot of songwriters would agree that it's often easier to find inspiration in misery.