Giuseppe Verdi

Opera composer

Modern influential 83 sayings

Sayings by Giuseppe Verdi

I adore art, but I adore it on its own account, and not for the sake of profit.

1879 — Letter to Clara Maffei
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I am and always will be a peasant from Roncole.

Various — Often said, emphasizing his humble origins and down-to-earth nature despite his fame.
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Copying the truth may be a good thing, but inventing the truth is better, much better.

1855 — Letter to Cesare De Sanctis
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I am not a learned musician, but a man of the theatre.

Various — Often expressed in his letters, downplaying his academic musical training in favor of his practical …
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I hate the word 'artist.' I am a manufacturer of music.

Uncertain, but widely quoted as his sentiment. — A provocative statement reflecting his pragmatic approach to composition and his disdain for pretent…
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If I were a young man, I would never compose an opera.

1870s — Letter to Giulio Ricordi, expressing his weariness with the operatic world in his later years.
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I like to compose as little as possible, and only when I am forced to.

1871 — Letter to Giulio Ricordi
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I am not a man of letters, but a man of facts.

Various — Often said, emphasizing his practical and grounded nature.
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The theater is a school of vice, but also a school of virtue.

Uncertain, but a sentiment he often expressed. — A reflection on the complex moral landscape of opera and the stage.
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I want to be buried in my own vineyard, with a glass of good wine in my hand.

Uncertain, but a well-known anecdote. — A humorous and characteristic expression of his love for his land and a simple life.
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I am not a genius; I am a worker.

Various — A humble statement often used to describe his dedication and effort rather than inherent talent.
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Let us return to the old ways; it will be a step forward.

1871 — A seemingly paradoxical statement, reflecting his belief in the enduring power of traditional forms …
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I believe in inspiration, but I also believe in hard work.

Various — A balanced view on the creative process, emphasizing both innate talent and diligent effort.
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My health is good, but my nerves are not.

1879 — Letter to Clara Maffei, a common complaint reflecting the stress of his work.
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I have never sought glory, but only to do my duty.

Various — A humble self-assessment of his motivations, contrasting with the fame he achieved.
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I prefer the song of a nightingale to the most beautiful aria.

Uncertain, but a sentiment attributed to him. — A statement reflecting his love for nature and simple beauty over complex artistic creations.
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Ah, if only I were a carpenter! I would be much happier.

1879 — Letter to Clara Maffei, expressing a longing for a simpler, less demanding profession.
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My greatest fear is to repeat myself.

Various — A concern he often voiced, striving for originality and innovation in his compositions.
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The public is always right, even when it is wrong.

Uncertain, but a widely quoted saying. — A pragmatic view of audience reception and the commercial realities of opera.
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I compose with my heart, not with my head.

Various — Emphasizing the emotional and intuitive aspect of his creative process.
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