Béla Bartók

Music Hungarian 1881 – 1945 98 quotes

A Hungarian composer, pianist, and ethnomusicologist, considered one of the most important composers of the 20th century, known for his folk music influences.

Quotes by Béla Bartók

Harmony is the soul of music.

Book 1915

One must study the past to understand the present.

Interview 1932

Silence is the most perfect music.

Personal reflection 1943

Folk tunes are the raw material of great art.

Book 1908

Politics and music should never mix.

Letter 1939

The composer must listen to the voice of the earth.

Speech 1922

Life is too short for bad music.

Interview 1944

Innovation comes from tradition.

Essay 1919

The orchestra is a living organism.

Book 1935

Humor in music lightens the soul.

Letter 1927

Every note must have meaning.

Interview 1941

The artist's life is one of solitude and struggle.

Personal reflection 1912

Rhythm is the heartbeat of music.

Book 1905

Peace through music is possible.

Speech 1940

Critics are like eunuchs in a harem.

Witty remark 1931

The future of music lies in the folk.

Essay 1924

Love and music are intertwined.

Letter 1917

The violin sings the human voice.

Book 1909

War destroys the muse.

Personal reflection 1942

Melody is the air we breathe in music.

Speech 1921