10 Ludwig van Beethoven Quotes on Art

Ludwig van Beethoven quotes on art

2. There ought to be but one large art warehouse in the world, to which the artist could carry his art-works, and from which he could carry away whatever he needed. As it is, one must be half a tradesman.

3. Art! Who comprehends her? With whom can one consult concerning this great goddess?

4. The world is a king, and like a king, desires flattery in return for favor; but true art is selfish and perverse - it will not submit to the mold of flattery.

10. When his friends, says Czerny, speak to him of his youthful renown, he replies: 'Ah, nonsense! I have never thought of writing for renown and glory. What I have in my heart must out; that is why I write.'

12. Everything will pass, and the world will perish but the Ninth Symphony will remain.

    Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.

14. Anyone who understands my music will never be unhappy again.

19. Music is........ a higher revelation than all wisdom and philosophy.

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

30. To sing a wrong note is insignificant, but to sing without passion is unforgivable.

32. My music is music about music.