Johannes Brahms

It is not hard to compose, but it is wonderfully hard to get rid of the superfluous notes.

I shall never write a symphony! You have no idea how a man like me feels when he constantly hears the giant marching behind him.

If there is anyone who can make a more beautiful song out of this, let him do it. I am satisfied.

I would give a good deal to be able to write as spontaneously as Schubert.

I often think that I am not a composer at all, but a dilettante who has a certain talent for music.

The 'Eroica' is a work of genius, but it is not for me. I prefer the 'Pastoral'.

I am a slow worker, and I like to take my time.

It is not enough to have talent; one must also have taste.

I have learned to be patient. It is a great virtue.

One can never learn enough. There is always something new to discover.

I am a very shy person, and I do not like to be in the public eye.

I do not like to talk about my music. I prefer to let it speak for itself.

I have always tried to be honest in my music, and to express what I feel.

I believe that music should be beautiful, and that it should touch the heart.

I am not a revolutionary. I am a conservative.

I have always admired the old masters, and I have tried to learn from them.

I do not believe in inspiration. I believe in hard work.

I have always tried to be true to myself, and to my art.

I do not care for fame or fortune. I only care for my music.

I have always tried to write music that is both beautiful and meaningful.