Missing Bach Compositions Played for First-Ever Performance in Three Centuries

Historical organ composition
Bach is considered to have created the two compositions at the start of his musical journey

Previously unknown musical pieces by the musical genius Bach have been presented and executed in the central European country for the premiere performance in 320 years.

Germany's Culture Minister the government representative labeled the unearthing of the pair of works a "important event for the global music scene".

They first caught the attention of Peter Wollny in the early nineties when he was organizing the composer's papers at the Royal Library of Belgium.

The musical compositions - the Chaconne composition in D minor and Chaconne in G minor - were undated and anonymous. Mr Wollny spent the following three decades working to verify the origin of the pieces.

Landmark Presentation

They were presented at the Thomas Church in the eastern German municipality, where the composer is laid to rest and where he worked as a church musician for twenty-seven years.

The two pieces were played by organist from the Netherlands the musical performer, who said he was privileged to be able to present them for the initial performance in 320 years.

He said the compositions were "remarkably sophisticated" and would be "a great asset for contemporary organ players, as they are also suitable for more compact instruments".

Historical Significance

They are thought to have been created during Bach's formative years, when he was employed as an organ teacher in the town of the German town in central Germany.

The scholar, who is now the head of the Bach Archive in the city, said they exhibited several characteristics unique to the composer.

"Musically, the works also feature elements that can be identified in Bach's works from this period, but not in those of any other composer," he said.

They are considered to have been transcribed in 1705 by Bach's apprentice, the musical student.

At a presentation of the pieces, the researcher said he was "virtually certain that Bach had created the two compositions" and they have now been included into the authoritative listing of his works.

Connected Subjects:
  • European Arts
  • German Heritage
  • Orchestral works
  • Music
Isaiah Anderson
Isaiah Anderson

A certified meditation instructor and wellness coach with over a decade of experience in mindfulness practices.