The most difficult compositions

(by Wilhelm Bachaus)

"I have continually been asked, "What is the most difficult composition?" The question always amuses me, but I suppose it is very human and in line with the desire to measure the highest building, the tallest mountain, the longest river or the oldest castle. Why is such a premium put upon mere difficulty? Strange to say, no one ever seems to think it necessary to inquire, "What is the most beautiful piece?" "Difficulty in music should by no means be estimated by technical complications. To play a Mozart concerto well is a colossally difficult undertaking.
The pianist who has worked for hours to get such a composition as near as possible to his conception of perfection is never given the credit for his work, except
by a few connoisseurs, many of whom have been through a similarly exacting experience. Months may be spent upon comparatively simple compositions, such as the Haydn Sonatas or the Mozart Sonatas, and the musical public is blind to the additional finish or polish so evident to the virtuoso."