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Unknown early work by Mozart discovered in Germany

The work consists of seven movements for string trio with a total duration of about 12 minutes

Sep 20, 2024 06:32 62

Unknown early work by Mozart discovered in Germany  - 1

A previously unknown short work attributed to Mozart and probably written by the Austrian composer in his youth, has been discovered in Leipzig, Germany, researchers said, cited by AFP and BTA.

The work consists of seven movements for string trio with a total duration of about 12 minutes. It is believed to have been written in the mid or late 1860s, the Leipzig Municipal Libraries said in a statement.

Regarded as a child prodigy, Mozart was born in 1756 and began composing at an early age under the tutelage of his father, Leopold Mozart.

Researchers discovered his early work in the city's music library while compiling the latest edition of the Köchel Catalogue, a comprehensive collection of Mozart's musical works.

The press release states that the unsigned manuscript is a copy or transcription made around 1780 and is not Mozart's work.

In the new catalogue, the unpublished work is called Ganz kleine Nachtmusik ("Very Little Night Music"), a reference to one of the composer's most famous works. It is said to have been written before Mozart's first trip to Italy.

The work was performed live for the first time today by a string trio in Salzburg, Austria, Mozart's birthplace. Its premiere in Germany will be on Saturday at the Leipzig Opera House.