It is the melody which is the charm of music, and it is that which is most difficult to produce. The invention of a fine melody is a work of genius.

The life's story of great geniuses is a sad one, without much tangible reward, which does not inspire future generations to face a similar fate. Alas also, it stands to reason why so many talent will not come to sparkle on the artistic firmanent.

Rules are my very humble, obedient servants.

I was never a quick writer, but composed with great care and efforts.

Whenever I think of God I can only conceive of Him as a Being infinitely great and infinitely good. This last quality of the divine nature inspires me with such confidence and joy that I could have written even a miserere in tempo allegro.

I listened more than I studied... therefore little by little my knowledge and ability were developed.

The custom of saluting [i.e., embracing] ladies by their relatives and friends was introduced, it is said, by the early Romans, not out of respect originally, but to find by their breath whether they had been drinking wine, this being criminal for women to do, as it sometimes led to adultery.

When I think upon my God, my heart is full of joy that the notes dance and leap from my pen.

I'm going to commune with God and I must be appropriately dressed!

When I think of my God, my heart dances within me for joy, and then my music has to dance, too.

There was no one near to confuse me, so I was forced to become original.

Children be comforted, I am well.

I tell you before God, and as an honest man, your son (W A Mozart)is the greatest composer known to me by person and repute, he has taste and what is more the greatest skill in composition.

Cheer up, children, I am all right.

I would give my best quartet for a good razor.