At a rehearsal I let the orchestra play as they like. At the concert I make them play as I like.

The function of music is to release us from the tyranny of conscious thought.

They are quite hopeless - drooling, driveling, doleful, depressing, dropsical drips.

Composers should write tunes that chauffeurs and errand boys can whistle.

The trouble with women in an orchestra is that if they're attractive it will upset my players and if they're not it will upset me.

"Have you heard any Stockhausen?" Beecham was asked. "No, but I believe I have stepped in some."

Madam, you have between your legs an instrument capable of giving pleasure to thousands and all you can do is scratch it.

The sound of a harpsichord - two skeletons copulating on a tin roof in a thunderstorm.

Great music is that which penetrates the ear with facility and leaves the memory with difficulty. Magical music never leaves the memory.

There are two golden rules for an orchestra: start together and finish together. The public doesn't give a damn what goes on in between.

It is quite untrue that British people don't appreciate music. They may not understand it but they absolutely love the noise it makes.

If you have love, it doesn’t matter what you don’t have.

Out of every tragedy, " he said, "comes new strength.

She's happy to be home but being home means that it's an end to her adventure and escape.

When you're in the zone of your purpose with passion...time stands still.

It's hard work being a person, you have to do it every single day.

The easiest way to get what you want is to help others get what they want.

Churches whose members fight with one another have lost their vision for the lost.

Too much success is not an advantage. Do not tinkle like jade Or clatter like stone chimes.

I like to get out and get up the court, using my speed and aggressiveness toward the hoop.

It's just a temporary thing.