Mozart's music is free of all exaggeration, of all sharp breaks and contradictions. The sun shines but does not blind, does not burn or consume. Heaven arches over the earth, but it does not weigh it down, it does not crush or devour it.
Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.
Some argue his music lacks the dramatic depth of contemporaries.
Mozart's music is an invitation to the listener to venture just a little out of the sense of his own subjectivity.
It is hard to think of another composer who so perfectly marries form and passion.
Mozart's music always sounds unburdened, effortless, and light. This is why it unburdens, releases, and liberates us.
Oh, could I flow like thee, and make thy stream My great example, as it is my theme! Though deep, yet clear; though gentle, yet not dull; Strong without rage; …
Music, even in situations of the greatest horror, should never be painful to the ear but should flatter and charm it, and thereby always remain music.
I can look a whole day with delight upon a handsome picture, though it be but of a horse. It is my temper, & I like it the better, to affect all harmony, and s…