"Composers in the old days used to keep strictly to the base of the theme, as their real subject. Beethoven varies the melody, harmony and rhythms so beautifully"

This quote by Johannes Brahms speaks with the importance of variation in composition. Brahms is recommending that in the past, composers would stay with the base of the theme, or the essence, as their main focus. Nevertheless, he is praising Beethoven for his capability to differ the tune, consistency, and rhythms of his compositions. This variation is what makes Beethoven's music so lovely and fascinating. Brahms is suggesting that variation is an important part of composition which it can be utilized to produce something truly special. He is also recommending that composers ought to make every effort to produce something special and interesting, instead of simply adhering to the base of the style. By differing the melody, harmony, and rhythms, composers can produce something truly beautiful and captivating.