The so-called Virtuoso's misleading veneer of prosperity has tempted many people to wish to become Virtuosos themselves, regardless of whether or not they have the necessary and requisite qualities – or even whether the fortune of the Virtuoso is actually as great as they imagine, and whether they might not do better to choose something which would be more realistic for them.

Just consider how wretchedly the greater part of those who turn their hand to music, whether Virtuosos or not, must make shift for themselves. The Virtuoso, if he is really great, has a certain appearance of well-being about him; but he is judged only on that facade that is most often presented. He must do exceptionally well, and must have a great deal of luck if he wants to give the impression of prosperity on tour – I say the impression of prosperity, for if in one place he earns something, the same amount gets spent there, or in another place where he earns nothing. And so time slips by until he grows old and good for nothing, and leaves the world in miserable circumstances.

If he is appointed to a court orchestra, he will be very lucky to get a salary that he can live from comfortably. Most [orchestral players] still get very little, although there are often many able ones among them who deserve a better fate.