Lost Bach Compositions Played for First Time in Three Centuries

Historical organ composition
The composer is considered to have written the pair of organ works at the start of his musical journey

Newly discovered organ works by the renowned composer Bach have been presented and executed in the European nation for the initial occasion in 320 years.

The country's Cultural Affairs Minister the government representative labeled the finding of the pair of works a "great moment for the world of music".

They originally drew interest of a musical scholar in 1992 when he was documenting Bach manuscripts at the Brussels archive.

The musical compositions - the D minor Chaconne and G minor composition - were dating unknown and without attribution. Mr Wollny spent the following three decades working to confirm the identity of the pieces.

Landmark Presentation

They were presented at the Thomas Church in the German city, where Bach is interred and where he worked as a music director for over two decades.

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

He said the works were "exceptionally well-crafted" and would be "an important addition for contemporary organ players, as they are also appropriate for smaller organs".

Historical Significance

They are thought to have been created early in Bach's career, when he was employed as an organ teacher in the town of Arnstadt in Thuringia.

The scholar, who is now the leader of the Bach research center in the municipality, said they displayed several qualities particular to the artist.

"In terms of style, the compositions also include aspects that can be found in the composer's creations from this period, but not in those of other musicians," he said.

They are thought to have been recorded in 1705 by one of Bach's pupils, the historical figure.

At a presentation of the works, Mr Wollny said he was "almost completely confident that Bach had composed the two pieces" and they have now been added into the authoritative listing of his musical output.

Related Categories:
  • European Culture
  • German Culture
  • Classical music
  • Performance Arts
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