Composition Quote by Johannes Brahms

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

What would become of all historical biography if it was written only with consideration for other peoples' feelings?

— Johannes Brahms

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

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

I sometimes ponder on variation form and it seems to me it ought to be more restrained, purer.

— Johannes Brahms

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

To follow in Beethoven's footsteps transcends one's strength.

— Johannes Brahms

A symphony is no joke.

— Johannes Brahms

If there is anyone here whom I have not insulted, I beg his pardon.

— Johannes Brahms

The only true immortality lies in one's children.

— Johannes Brahms

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

It is not hard to compose, but what is fabulously hard is to leave the superfluous notes under the table.

— Johannes Brahms