The rustle of the leaves in summer's hush
When wandering breezes touch them, and the sigh
That read more

The rustle of the leaves in summer's hush
When wandering breezes touch them, and the sigh
That filters through the forest, or the gush
That swells and sinks amid the branches high,--
'Tis all the music of the wind, and we
Let fancy float on the aeolian breath.

God is its author, and not man; he laid
The key-note of all harmonies; he planned
All read more

God is its author, and not man; he laid
The key-note of all harmonies; he planned
All perfect combinations, and he made
Us so that we could hear and understand.

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

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

Each song, you're telling a story and acting.

Each song, you're telling a story and acting.

When I speak of the gifted listener, I am thinking of the nonmusician primarily, of the listener who intends to read more

When I speak of the gifted listener, I am thinking of the nonmusician primarily, of the listener who intends to retain his amateur status. It is the thought of just such a listener that excites the composer in me.

May you live to be 100 and may the last voice you hear be mine.

May you live to be 100 and may the last voice you hear be mine.

Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and cannot remain silent

Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and cannot remain silent

I think often sadness is a great place to get songs from.

I think often sadness is a great place to get songs from.