The discovery is considered a musical-historical event: a piano piece, probably written by Chopin, appeared in New York. The star pianist Lang Lang now plays the waltz and is enthusiastic about it.
Monk.
The piece that drives pianist Lang Lang crazy: a waltz probably written by the composer Frédéric (Fryderyk) Chopin (1810-1849) lasts less than a minute and a half. Lang Lang has now recorded the song entitled “The Waltz in A minor “Found in New York””. The 42-year-old told the German news agency that it sounds a lot like Chopin: “The harmonies, the poetry, the structure. In my opinion it’s Chopin.”
For the classical music world, it’s great that there’s a new piece that people in the 21st century haven’t heard yet. Take a fresh look at this great tradition. And it would be nice to discover even more works by great composers, perhaps Brahms or Rachmaninoff, said Lang Lang on the sidelines of his participation in the “Bambi” awards in Munich. The digital single, released by Deutsche Grammophon, is available now.
Short and direct
The pianist described the waltz as very melancholy. It seems like you are coming out of dark clouds and reading a poem. And then you hear it again and you feel a little better. “But only a small, faint hope.”
Music as medicine
“Especially in today’s world, we need music more than ever. There are a lot of problems and a lot of tension. Music melts the heart and makes you forget about problems. In a way, music is good medicine,” Lang said Lang, and continued: “Whether you listen to a Schumann symphony or Beethoven’s Ninth, it is always a healing process.” It’s like we’re busy and anxious and then we take a deep breath. “This music is like a little vacation.”
Chopin was one of his favorite composers, Lang Lang said. “He was my absolute favorite when I was a child. But as I grew up, there were so many other composers who I thought were fantastic.” Chopin is as important to a pianist as Paganini is to a violinist.
According to the New York Times, the piece was discovered by curator Robinson McClellan while sorting cultural collectibles in Manhattan’s Morgan Museum. The work, rather short (48 bars), is simply titled “Valse” and bears the name Chopin, the newspaper reports. According to several experts it came from Chopin’s pen. It contains typical elements of the Polish composer’s calligraphy, but no signature. (dpa)
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Lang Lang
Editor: Welcome, Lang Lang! It’s a pleasure to have you with us. There’s been a thrilling discovery in the world of classical music—a waltz that’s believed to be composed by Chopin has surfaced in New York! Can you tell us how you felt when you first encountered this piece?
Lang Lang: Thank you for having me! When I first played the waltz, it was an incredible moment. It lasts less than a minute and a half, but it carries so much weight! The harmonies, the poetry, and the structure resonate deeply with Chopin’s signature style. I was immediately drawn in; it felt like I was directly connecting with the past.
Editor: That’s fascinating! You mentioned that it really sounds like Chopin. What specific elements of the piece made you feel this way?
Lang Lang: The composition captures that quintessential Chopin essence—the lyrical melodies and intricate harmonies. You can hear the emotional depth that he is known for. It’s as though he was speaking through time, and I feel honored to share his voice with the world again.
Editor: It’s exciting to think that we have new material from such a legendary composer. How do you think this discovery impacts the classical music landscape today?
Lang Lang: It’s a monumental moment for us! In the 21st century, having a new piece from Chopin gives both musicians and listeners a chance to explore and appreciate the richness of our classical heritage. It invites fresh interpretations and revives interest in the great composers. Who knows? Maybe we’ll uncover more hidden gems from composers like Brahms or Rachmaninoff!
Editor: That’s a beautiful thought. As an artist, how do you approach performing pieces that are newly discovered versus well-known classics?
Lang Lang: Each piece, whether it’s a familiar classic or a new discovery, tells its own story. For new works, there’s a certain thrill in unraveling them—discovering the nuances and expressing them in a way that feels true to the composer’s spirit. With classics, there’s the weight of tradition and expectation, but I always try to bring my own interpretation to keep the music alive and relevant.
Editor: Absolutely, and that’s what makes your performances so captivating. Speaking of your performances, can you tell us more about your recent recording of “The Waltz in A Minor ‘Found in New York'”?
Lang Lang: Yes! The recording was released by Deutsche Grammophon, and I poured my heart into it. I wanted to ensure that this piece is not just heard but felt. I hope it inspires others to explore more of Chopin’s music and perhaps rekindle their passion for classical pieces that might have been overlooked.
Editor: It sounds like a true labor of love! As we wrap up, what message do you hope to convey to your audience with this exciting new addition to the classical repertoire?
Lang Lang: Music has the power to transcend time and connect us all. My hope is that this waltz kindles curiosity and a sense of wonder about our musical legacy. I want people to feel that classical music is not just a remnant of the past but a living, breathing art form that continues to evolve and inspire.
Editor: Thank you, Lang Lang! We’re all looking forward to experiencing your recording and the love you’ve infused into it. This and other discoveries indeed keep the spirit of great composers alive in today’s world.
Lang Lang: Thank you! I can’t wait for everyone to hear it.