“Without enthusiasm nothing great can be effected in art.”

“Think it a vile habit to alter works of good composers, to omit parts of them, or to insert new-fashioned ornaments. This is the greatest insult you can offer to Art.”

“From a pound of iron, that costs little, a thousand watch-springs can be made, whose value becomes prodigious. The pound you have received from the Lord,--use it faithfully.”

“If all would play first violin, we could not obtain an orchestra. Therefore esteem every musician in his place.”

“You should neither play bad compositions, nor, unless compelled, listen to them.”

“The hearing of masterworks of different epochs will speediest of all cure you of vanity and self-adoration.”

“If we were all determined to play the first violin we should never have an ensemble. Therefore, respect every musician in his proper place.”