Ludwig van Beethoven Quotes

Ich werde im Himmel hören! (I will hear in heaven!)

Music is indeed the mediator between the spiritual and sensual life.

Music is the one incorporeal entrance into the higher world of knowledge which comprehends mankind but which mankind cannot comprehend.

Only art and science can raise men to the level of gods.

Only the pure of heart can make a good soup.

"The only sign of "superiority" I acknowledge in Man is goodness."

Never forget the days I spent with you. Continue to be my friend, as you will always find me yours.

Good Morning, on July 7

My thoughts go out to you, my Immortal Beloved I can only live wholly with you or not at all-
Be calm my life, my all. Only by calm consideration of our existence can we achieve our purpose to live together. Oh continue to love me, never misjudge the most faithful heart of your beloved.
Ever Thine
Ever Mine
Ever Yours

I met [Meyerbeer] at the performance of my "Battle." Most of the composers then in Vienna were kind enough to undertake something or other in my orchestra, and the young man played the big drum. Ha! ha! ha! (a peal of laughter). I had reason not to be very well satisfied with him. He was always behindhand, and I had to give it him roundly. (New peal of laughter.) He must have felt mortified by my observations; but there is no reliance to be placed in him; he has not the courage to raise his arm at the proper moment.

A great poet is the most precious jewel of a nation.

To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable.

The true artist is not proud, he unfortunately sees that art has no limits; he feels darkly how far he is from the goal; and though he may be admired by others, he is sad not to have reached that point to which his better genius only appears as a distant, guiding sun. I would, perhaps, rather come to you and your people, than to many rich folk who display inward poverty.

Muß es sein? Es muß sein.

Do not merely practice your art, but force your way into its secrets; it deserves that, for only art and science can exalt man to divinity.

Everything that is called life should be sacrificed to the sublime and be a sanctuary of art