Most of the world’s truly great people have a genuine humility about them. Oh, I know, there are plenty of famous people who are pompous, conceited, and self-important. But I’m not talking
about fame. I’m talking about greatness. I have in mind great musicians
like the composer and pianist Johannes Brahms. After performing
two of his piano concertos in Berlin, he attended a dinner in his honor.
The host proposed a toast to “the most famous composer.” Before the
host could get out any more words, Brahms hastily hoisted his glass and
shouted, “Quite On another occasion, Brahms vis- right. Here’s to
Mozart!” ited a great wine connoisseur. In honor of his distinguished
guest, the man had brought out several of his best wines. “This is the
Brahms of my cellar, ” he announced as he poured one particularly
choice wine into the great composer’s glass.
Brahms went through the
tasting ritual, looked closely at the wine, inhaled its bouquet. Then,
after sip- ping it, he placed his glass on the table, turned to his
host, and said, “Better bring out your Beethoven.”
