
The classical music world was electrified this year when not just one, but two previously unknown works by classical greats were discovered.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Serenata in C or Ganz kleine Nachtmusik
Researchers at the Leipzig Municipal Library, while updating the Kochel catalog of Mozart’s works, were in for the surprise of their lives when they discovered a “new” string trio written by the famous composer. The manuscript, written in dark brown ink on handmade paper, has been dated to the 1760s. Based on the style and characteristics, experts believe Mozart composed the piece when he was between 10 and 13 years of age. The manuscript bears the title “Serenate ex C,” but has since been named “Ganz kleine Nachtmusik” (a very little night music), and cataloged as K. 648.
The piece is written for two violins and a cello, and consists of seven short movements. It was first performed on September 19, 2024, by three members of the Leipzig Youth Symphony Orchestra. You can watch the premiere performance here. If you’re interested in the score, click here for a version with the complete score. This tasteful performance is also worth a listen.
Frédéric Chopin – Waltz in A minor, “Found in New York”
On October 27, 2024, just a month after the Mozart announcement, the New York Times broke the story of the discovery of a lost Chopin waltz. A curator at the Morgan Library and Museum in New York City was cataloging a bequest of memorabilia, and found a small manuscript, a Valse by Chopin that he didn’t recognize. After extensive research, the composition was declared to be an authentic work by Chopin. Not only were the paper and ink a match, but the penmanship, the unique bass clef, and the tiny notation were all typical of Chopin’s style. The size of the manuscript (4 inches by 5 inches) may suggest it was intended as a gift, or even just a quick draft. It is believed to have been written during the 1830s when Chopin was around 20 years old.
The waltz itself is short, only 48 measures long with the repeat, and includes fingerings and dynamics. It was first recorded by pianist Lang Lang, and released on November 8, 2024. Click here to listen to the world premiere recording.
Other interpretations of this work worth watching: Katrina Suroveca, Dorian Griner, and Tomasz Ritter’s performance on Chopin’s Pleyel piano.