Composers in the old days used to keep strictly to the base of the theme, as their real subject. Beethoven varies the melody, harmony and rhythms so beautifully. — Johannes Brahms Copy Share Image
One should never forget that by actually perfecting one piece one gains and learns more than by starting or half-finishing a dozen. — Johannes Brahms Copy Share Image
What would become of all historical biography if it was written only with consideration for other peoples' feelings? — Johannes Brahms Copy Share Image
In my study I can lay my hand on the Bible in the pitch dark. All truly inspired ideas come from God. The powers… — Johannes Brahms Copy Share Image
Reviewer: 'One of your themes was very similar to one of Beethoven's!' Brahms replied, 'Of course it is. Everyone steals - the important thing… — Johannes Brahms Copy Share Image
I sometimes ponder on variation form and it seems to me it ought to be more restrained, purer. — Johannes Brahms Copy Share Image
We cling nervously to the melody, but we don't handle it freely, we don't really make anything new out of it, we merely overload… — Johannes Brahms Copy Share Image
If there is anyone here whom I have not insulted, I beg his pardon. — Johannes Brahms Copy Share Image
Straight-away the ideas flow in upon me, directly from God, and not only do I see distinct themes in my mind's eye, but they… — Johannes Brahms Copy Share Image
It is not hard to compose, but what is fabulously hard is to leave the superfluous notes under the table. — Johannes Brahms Copy Share Image
