Discovered After Two Centuries: A New Waltz by Chopin

A manuscript thought to be written by Frederic Chopin has resurfaced at the Morgan Library, stirring excitement among music historians and enthusiasts.

In an extraordinary find, a previously unknown waltz by iconic composer Frederic Chopin has been located almost 200 years post-composition. The manuscript surfaced in the archival vaults of the Morgan Library and Museum in New York, revealing a treasure trove of musical history. Dated between 1830 and 1835, the discovery was made by curator Robinson McClellan during a routine cataloging process of newly acquired collections.

While the manuscript lacks a signature from Chopin, the nuanced handwriting features his distinctive bass clef style. McClellan, working in collaboration with a prominent Chopin expert, is confident in its authenticity despite minor errors in rhythm and notation. “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 shared with BBC’s Newshour. “The uncertainty lies in whether he composed the music itself. I feel around 98% sure, and many who’ve heard it intuitively resonate with its Chopin essence.”

The newly rediscovered piece is characterized by a surprising stormy opening, yet contains melodic elements typical to Chopin's style, reinforcing its potential legitimacy. Renowned pianist Lang Lang has taken on the challenge of recording the waltz, providing a modern touch to this historical unearthed gem. Restaurateurs of Chopin's life note that he passed away at just 39, having endured personal struggles and possibly epilepsy, deepening the intrigue surrounding his brief yet impactful existence in the music world.