Missing Johann Sebastian Bach Pieces Played for First-Ever Performance in 320 Years

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

Previously unknown musical pieces by the renowned composer Bach have been presented and performed in Germany for the premiere performance in 320 years.

The country's Cultural Affairs Minister Wolfram Weimer labeled the unearthing of the two compositions a "important event for the world of music".

They originally drew interest of a Bach researcher in the early nineties when he was organizing the composer's papers at the Belgian royal collection.

The organ works - the Chaconne in D minor and G minor Chaconne - were undated and unsigned. The scholar spent the subsequent thirty years working to authenticate the origin of the pieces.

Landmark Presentation

They were presented at the St Thomas Church in the eastern German municipality, where Bach is buried and where he was employed as a music director for 27 years.

The pair of works were played by Dutch organist the renowned organist, who said he was honored to be able to play them for the first time in over three centuries.

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

Cultural Relevance

They are considered to have been composed during Bach's formative years, when he was working as an music instructor in the town of the Thuringian town in Thuringia.

Mr Wollny, who is now the head of the Bach Archive in the city, said they displayed several characteristics unique to the musical genius.

"Musically, the compositions also include characteristics that can be identified in the composer's creations from that era, but not in those of other musicians," he said.

They are thought to have been recorded in the early eighteenth century by a student of Bach, the musical student.

At a revealing of the works, Mr Wollny said he was "almost completely confident that Bach had created the two pieces" and they have now been added into the official catalogue of his works.

Related Categories:
  • European Arts
  • Germany
  • Classical compositions
  • Performance Arts
Erin Wilson
Erin Wilson

Tech enthusiast and seasoned reviewer with over a decade of experience in consumer electronics and digital trends.