Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Music Russian 1840 – 1893 387 quotes

Most popular Russian composer, master of melody

Most quoted

"I am passionately fond of the winter and I find that it has an invigorating effect on me until January; but from that time onwards I find the length of it unbearable."

— from Letter, 1878

"I would like with all the strength of my soul for my music to spread, for the number of people who love it, who find consolation and strength in it, to increase."

— from Letter, 1878

"There is no doubt that even the greatest musical geniuses have sometimes worked without inspiration. This guest does not always respond to the first invitation."

— from Letter, 1878

All quotes by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (387)

Music is heaven's greatest gift to humanity wandering in the darkness.

Attributed

I write my music as a tree bears its fruit, from an inner necessity.

Attributed

The first duty of an artist is to be true to himself.

Letter 1878

I have always striven to express in my music the sincere feelings of a human soul.

Attributed

My sole desire is to be a good instrument in the hands of God, that is, to write good music.

Letter 1877

I am now experiencing a creative surge such as I have not felt for a long time.

Letter 1893

Without work, life has no meaning for me.

Letter 1877