Thomas Beecham Quotes about Music

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.

Funny, Music, Two

In Harold Atkins and Archie Newman Beecham Stories (1978) p. 27

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.

Music, Player, Upset

Beethoven's last quartets were written by a deaf man and should only be listened to by a deaf man.

Music, Men, Lasts

Music first and last should sound well, should allure and enchant the ear. Never mind the inner significance.

Music, Mind, Sound

The English may not like music, but they absolutely love the noise it makes.

Love, Funny, Music

In New York Herald Tribune 9 Mar. 1961

Brass bands are all very well in their place - outdoors and several miles away.

Funny, Music, Brass Bands

“Readers recommend: best brass songs” by Peter Kimpton, www.theguardian.com. June 26, 2014.

I prefer Offenbach to Bach often.

Music

Elgar's first symphony is the musical equivalent of St Pancras Railway Station.

Music, Symphony, Firsts

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

Music, Memories, Magic

1953 Television broadcast,17 Nov.

A musicologist is a man who can read music but cannot hear it.

Music, Men, Classical Music

In H. Proctor-Gregg Beecham Remembered (1976) pt. 2, p. 154