Prince-Archbishopric of Salzburg

"Pascal and Felix Mendelssohn were prodigiously precocious. But when each died before reaching age forty, each was physiologically an old man. Not so with Mozart – from him could have been extrapolated as much again in the future as had generously erupted in the past."

"The most stimulating and encouraging thought is that you, dearest father, and my dear sister, are well, that I am an honest German, and that if I am not always permitted to talk I can think what I please; but that is all."

"I have always reckoned myself among the greatest admirers of Mozart, and shall do so till the day of my death."

"Lengthy immersion in the works of other composers can tire. The music of Mozart does not tire, and this is one of its miracles."

"A fellow of mediocre talent will remain a mediocrity, whether he travels or not; but one of superior talent will go to seed if he always remains in the same place."