Missing Bach Works Presented for First-Ever Performance in Over Three Centuries

Historical organ composition
The composer is believed to have created the two organ pieces during his early years

Newly discovered organ works by Johann Sebastian Bach have been revealed and executed in Germany for the initial occasion in 320 years.

Germany's Cultural Affairs Minister the government representative called the unearthing of the two compositions a "great moment for the world of music".

They initially attracted notice of a musical scholar in the early nineties when he was cataloguing the composer's papers at the Belgian royal collection.

The musical compositions - the D minor Chaconne and G minor Chaconne - were dating unknown and unsigned. Mr Wollny spent the following three decades working to authenticate the origin of the pieces.

Memorable Concert

They were played at the historic Leipzig church in the German city, where the composer is interred and where he was employed as a church musician for 27 years.

The two pieces were executed by organist from the Netherlands the musical performer, who said he was proud to be able to perform them for the premiere in 320 years.

He said the pieces were "exceptionally well-crafted" and would be "a great asset for modern musicians, as they are also well-suited for more compact instruments".

Musical Importance

They are thought to have been composed early in Bach's career, when he was employed as an organ instructor in the town of Arnstadt in central Germany.

The researcher, who is now the leader of the Bach research center in Leipzig, said they demonstrated several characteristics particular to the artist.

"Stylistically, the compositions also contain aspects that can be identified in Bach's compositions from this period, but not in those of any other composer," he said.

They are believed to have been written down in 1705 by Bach's apprentice, the historical figure.

At a unveiling of the compositions, the expert said he was "99.99% sure that the composer had created the pair of works" and they have now been incorporated into the official catalogue of his works.

Related Categories:
  • European Arts
  • Germany
  • Classical compositions
  • Music
Leslie Kirby
Leslie Kirby

A passionate mountaineer and landscape photographer who documents high-altitude expeditions and shares insights on sustainable outdoor exploration.