Johann Sebastian Bach

I have always done my best, and that is all that can be asked of me.

The musicians should not be permitted to speak during the service, nor to chew tobacco.

The students are capable, but they are not always willing to apply themselves.

It is a disgrace to the city of Leipzig that the musicians are so poorly paid.

The authorities here are very strange people, and little inclined to promote music.

I have had to suffer much vexation, envy, and persecution.

I have to put up with a great deal of annoyance and envy, and consequently I am forced to live in almost constant vexation.

It is true that I have taken a wife from the nobility, but she is a good housewife.

I have had to write a good deal of music for the church, but I have not always been able to use the best texts.

I have composed a good deal, but it is all for the glory of God.

The art of fugue is the highest art form.

I am a musician, and I have to serve God with my music.

It is necessary to practice diligently, for mastery comes only through hard work.

I have to educate the pupils, and they are sometimes very stubborn.

The music should be well-ordered and clear, so that the congregation can understand it.

I prefer to compose music that is both learned and pleasing.

I work hard, and if you work hard you can do it too.

It is easy to play any musical instrument: all you have to do is touch the right key at the right time and the instrument will play itself.

I play the notes as I feel them, and if I don't feel them, I don't play them.

The aim and final end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul. If heed is not paid to this, it is not true music but a diabolical bawling and bellowing.