In brief
A previously unknown waltz by Frederic Chopin has been discovered at the Morgan Library and Museum in New York, dating from 1830 to 1835. Curator Robinson McClellan unearthed the manuscript during cataloguing, confirming its authenticity with a leading Chopin expert. Although the piece exhibits some minor errors and lacks Chopin's signature, McClellan is highly confident in its attribution to the composer, highlighting the waltz's distinctive style.
A rare piece of music believed to be the work of famed Polish composer Frederic Chopin has been uncovered nearly 200 years after its inception. The long-lost waltz was found in the vaults of the Morgan Library and Museum in New York by curator Robinson McClellan. The manuscript, which is dated between 1830 and 1835, surfaced during the cataloguing of new collections.Working closely with a renowned Chopin expert, McClellan confirmed the piece's authenticity. Although the manuscript lacks Chopin's signature, its handwritten notes feature his distinctive bass clef writing style. Despite minor rhythmic and notational errors, McClellan expressed a high level of confidence regarding its attribution to Chopin. "What we're most certain about is it is written in the hand of Chopin, paper that he wrote on himself in his own hand," he remarked in an interview with BBC's Newshour. While he cannot definitively claim the music was composed by Chopin, he stated, "I feel about 98% sure, and many who have heard it believe this sounds like Chopin."The discovered piece exhibits unique characteristics, with a "stormy opening" that may deviate from Chopin's established conventions, but officials note that these elements are not entirely out of character for the composer. Acclaimed pianist Lang Lang has recorded the waltz for the New York Times, which was first to report on the remarkable find.Frederic Chopin, primarily known for his piano solos, passed away at the age of 39 in France in 1849. His life was fraught with difficulties, including hallucinations and potential epilepsy, leading to a myriad of speculations surrounding his untimely death. The revelation of this waltz adds a new dimension to Chopin’s enduring legacy, reminding the world of the profound impact of his artistry.
