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.

Composers should write tunes that chauffeurs and errand boys can whistle.

People 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.

The statues of archdukes or composers presided with pensive nonchalance.

Now, very few composers write for themselves.

I always make it a point to teach them to know what they are singing, its purpose, composers, and historical background on the period it was written.