“First character, then ability.”

“If he or she really goes about it in earnest, anyone can cultivate ability in ten years, I believe. Even in one year, shortcomings can be changed into good points if only we set our aims high enough. Continuing for ten years, we can become outstanding indeed...There is no limit to our shortcomings. Until we die, we should spare no time or effort in changing our weaknesses to merits. To do so can be pleasant and interesting. We can become like the horse that starts last and yet outruns the field, reaching the wire first; it is the same fun.”

“As I have said before, I had no illusions about my performing ability. But I did not know that my despair was brought about not because I had no talent but because I did not know how to develop it.”

“If a musician wants to become a fine artist, he must first become a finer person.”

“Live by looking for things to do for other people.”

“I cannot live without children.”

“A child's slowness in any subject indicates a deficiency in his environment, educational or otherwise.”