Johannes Rau quotes

Johannes Rau was a German statesman who served as President of Germany. Known for his commitment to social justice and reconciliation, he played a key role in German politics for decades. He is remembered for promoting dialogue and unity both within Germany and internationally. Here are 7 of his quotes:

A hundred years ago, when Richard Strauss, who has already been quoted and already been heard today, and other creative people, laid the foundation stone for the joint assertion of their rights and interests, they had pioneering work ahead of them in Germany.

Johannes Rau

A hundred years ago, of course, the question that the German Composers' Co-operative asked itself sounded a lot more fundamental: How do you create a fair share for those who ensure that works can actually be performed at all?

Johannes Rau

But it is equally necessary to consider the implications for a society if there are fewer and fewer young people making music because we are economising on music schools or musical education in schools.

Johannes Rau

Education is more than Pisa. Particularly musical education. We also need education and training for more than reasons of usefulness and marketability.

Johannes Rau

We must prepare the ground for creativity. And if this also gives rise later to success in the economic sense, success in terms of Euros and Cents, this will by no means reduce my joy.

Johannes Rau

But I think that sensitivity is also a good counsellor when it comes to enforcing one's interests.

Johannes Rau