A soprano in Massenet's Don Quixote complained that she had missed her entry in the aria, "because Mr. Challiapin always dies too soon." "Madam, you must be profoundly in error," said Sir Thomas, "No operatic star has yet died half… — Thomas Beecham Copy Share Image
As you'll never hear the thing again, my boy, why not throw in a couple of brass bands? — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
Without question the most unpopular medium of musical sound in the world. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
The sound of the harpsichord resembles that of a bird-cage played with toasting-forks. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
Composers and musicians have always starved and, as this is a sentimental country, we think the tradition should be continued. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
The grand tune is the only thing in music that the great public really understands. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
I have just been all round the world and have formed a very poor opinion of it. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
Madam, you have between your legs an instrument capable of giving pleasure to thousands and all you can do is scratch it. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
In the first movement alone, I took note of six pregnancies and at least four miscarriages. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
Beethoven's last quartets were written by a deaf man and should only be listened to by a deaf man. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
Have you heard any Stockhausen?" Beecham was asked. "No, but I believe I have stepped in some. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
If she is attractive, I can't perform with her; if she is not, then I won't. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
All the arts in America are a gigantic racket run by unscrupulous men for unhealthy women. — Thomas Beecham Copy Share
