I am so fresh in soul and spirit that life gushes and bubbles around me in a thousand springs.

To send light into the darkness of men's hearts - such is the duty of the artist.

Talent works, genius creates.

If we were all determined to play the first violin we should never have an ensemble. therefore, respect every musician in his proper place.

Nature best teaches how to pray, and how to reverence all the gifts the Almighty has given us. She is like a vast outspread handkerchief, embroidered with God's eternal name, on which we may dry alike our tears of sorrow and of joy; she turns weeping into ecstasy, and fills our hearts with speechless, quiet reverence and resignation.

The flame that is naturally clear always gives the most light and heat. If I could blend my talent for poetry and music into one, the light would burn still clearer, and I might go far.