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Talking of interesting musical quotes, here’s the razor-sharp …

Comment posted on Alaska by mittfh

Talking of interesting musical quotes, here’s the razor-sharp wit of George Friderick Handel:

“You have taken too much trouble over your opera. Here in England that is a mere waste of time. What the English like is something they can beat time to, something that hits them straight on the drum of the ear.” (to Gluck, 1745ish – and you could argue it still holds true today, over 250 years later!)

-oOo-

When asked why he borrowed material composed by Bononcini, Handel is said to have replied, “It’s much too good for him; he did not know what to do with it.” (Brilliant!)

-oOo-

A young singer in the choir of Worcester came to London with [a] recommendation to Mr Handel as [a] great genius. Handel asked him to sing; he did so. Handel said: “This is the way you praise God at Worcester?” “Yes”, he answered. “God is very good” [replied Handel], “and will no doubt hear your praises at Worcester, but no man will hear them at London.” (Oops…)

-oOo-

Finding it convenient to dine at a tavern, Handel ordered dinner for three. The wait became so long, he became impatient and sent for the host. “Why do you keep me so long waiting?” he asked, with the impetuosity of a hungry man. “We are waiting till the company arrives,” replied the innkeeper.

“Then bring up the dinner, prestissimo,” said Handel, “I am the company.” (Do you get the impression he had a hearty appetite?)