The Morgan Library & Museum revealed the discovery of a previously unknown waltz by the renowned composer Frédéric Chopin, hidden in plain sight on a small 4- by 5-inch manuscript. The waltz, short even for Chopin’s “small forms,” comes in at about one minute in length, yet exhibits the composer’s signature compactness and polish.
Curator Robinson McClellan, who initially discovered the tucked-away treasure in 2019, recognized its uniqueness. Unable to find a matching waltz in Chopin’s known compositions, he sought expert help from Jeffrey Kallberg, a Chopin authority at the University of Pennsylvania. Extensive analysis by Kallberg has led to the strong belief that this newly surfaced piece is indeed a Chopin original.
The manuscript, written in Chopin’s characteristic handwriting, includes fingerings and dynamic markings, suggesting he intended it to be performed. This detail, along with its small size, leads the museum to believe it may have been intended as a personal gift, perhaps for inclusion in an autograph album.
Despite its likely intended destination, the waltz remains unsigned. This detail adds to the mystery surrounding the piece, suggesting that Chopin ultimately changed his mind about gifting it.
“This newly discovered waltz expands our understanding of Chopin as a composer and opens new questions for scholars to consider regarding when he wrote it and for whom it was intended,” stated McClellan. Anticipation builds as the world of classical piano awaits the opportunity to experience this lost treasure for the first time.
This discovery adds a new chapter to the already rich legacy of the Polish composer, whose name is synonymous with exquisite piano music. Chopin, whose life was tragically cut short at the age of 39, continues to captivate and inspire. His music, image, and even his preserved heart remain integral to Poland’s cultural identity.
Recently, however, the narrative surrounding Chopin’s personal life has been tinged with controversy. A Swiss documentary in 2020 went against the grain, suggesting Chopin had romantic relationships with men – a revelation that clashed with Poland’s deeply conservative traditions. This revelation sparked a debate about the completeness of the Chopin story traditionally presented to the Polish public.