Music should strike fire from the heart of man, and bring tears from the eyes of woman.

To play without passion is inexcusable!

A great poet is the most precious jewel of a nation.

Music is the one incorporeal entrance into the higher world of knowledge which comprehends mankind but which mankind cannot comprehend.

Poets and heroes are of the same race, the latter do what the former conceive.

Music is the literature of the heart; it commences where speech ends.

The art of art, the glory of expression and the sunshine of the light of letters, is simplicity.

The earth has music for those who listen.

One thing that really appeals to me is this idea of music being a living thing that has an evolution that, in a way, enables the artist to sell a process rather than a piece of product.

The purpose of a writer is to keep civilization from destroying itself.

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

When you were young, and your heart, was an open book. You used to say, live and let live.

Rhythm is something you either have or don't have, but when you have it, you have it all over.

Art is magic delivered from the lie of being truth.

Music with dinner is an insult, both to the cook and the violinist.

Music was my refuge. I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl my back to loneliness.

An artist's duty is rather to stay open-minded and in a state where he can receive information and inspiration. You always have to be ready for that little artistic Epiphany.

I'm very happy to hear that my work inspires writers and painters. It's the most beautiful compliment, the greatest reward. Art should always be an exchange.

Painting is poetry that is seen rather than felt, and poetry is painting that is felt rather than seen.

Comedy is the blues for people who can?t sing.

Every day brings a chance for you to draw in a breath, kick off your shoes, and dance.