A previously unknown waltz believed to be composed by Frédéric Chopin has been discovered in the vault of the Morgan Library and Museum in New York. The piece, found on a card bearing Chopin’s name and dated between 1830 and 1835, was uncovered by curator Robinson McClellan while cataloguing new collections. The penmanship on the score matched Chopin’s distinctive style, including his bass clef and doodling characteristics. While the piece is not signed by Chopin, experts, including a leading Chopin scholar from the University of Pennsylvania, authenticated it as likely being composed by the famous pianist.
Renowned pianist Lang Lang, who recorded the waltz for the New York Times, noted that the piece showcases Chopin’s signature style with a mix of darkness and beauty. Despite its simplicity compared to some of Chopin’s other works, the waltz is considered authentic and in line with the composer’s unique sound. It is believed that the manuscript was written when Chopin was in his early 20s, adding to the mystery and excitement surrounding this new discovery. Chopin, born in 1810 to a French father and Polish mother, is known for his piano solos and is believed to have composed around 28 waltzes during his lifetime. However, only a portion of his works were published while he was alive, with many others thought to be lost or destroyed.
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