I have also paid great attention to the art of singing, as a necessary foundation for piano-playing.

I have devoted some talent, and at least an enthusiastic, unwearied love to the subject.

I have never stood still; have learned something of teaching every day, and have sought always to improve myself; I have always been something new and different, in every lesson and with every child; I have always kept up a cheerful, joyous courage, and this has usually kindled the same in my pupil, because it came from the heart.

Moreover, I have never been a man of routine, have never shown myself a pedant, who is obliged to hold fast to certain ideas and views.
I have lived up to the century, and have tried to understand and to advance the age; have heard every thing great and fine in music, and have induced my pupils also to hear it.

I have opposed with determination all the prejudices and false tendencies of the times, and never have allowed impatient parents to give advice about my lessons.