“ If, while at the piano, you attempt to form little melodies, that is very well; but if they come into your mind of themselves, when you are not practising, you may be still more pleased; for the inter… Robert Schumann
“ You will be most readily cured of vanity or presumption by studying the history of music, and by hearing the master pieces which have been produced at different periods. Robert Schumann
“ If we were all determined to play the first violin we should never have an ensemble. therefore, respect every musician in his proper place. Robert Schumann
“ Let your intimate friends be chosen from such as are better informed than yourself. Robert Schumann
“ Remember, there are more people in the world than yourself. Be modest! You have not yet invented nor thought anything which others have not thought or invented before. And should you really have done… Robert Schumann
“ From a pound of iron, that costs little, a thousand watch-springs can be made, whose value becomes prodigious. The pound you have received from the Lord,--use it faithfully. Robert Schumann
“ I am so fresh in soul and spirit that life gushes and bubbles around me in a thousand springs. Robert Schumann
“ The flame that is naturally clear always gives the most light and heat. If I could blend my talent for poetry and music into one, the light would burn still clearer, and I might go far. Robert Schumann
“ The study of jurisprudence, by which I must earn my bread, has so withered and frozen the flowers of my fancy that they will never again seek the light. (To his Mother, November 11, 1829) Robert Schumann
“ Think it a vile habit to alter works of good composers, to omit parts of them, or to insert new-fashioned ornaments. This is the greatest insult you can offer to Art. Robert Schumann
