A remarkable discovery has surfaced at a New York museum: a previously unknown composition in the hand of a famed composer, marking the first such find in over half a century. Following extensive tests on the manuscript’s paper and ink, detailed handwriting and musical style analyses, and consultations with independent experts, the Morgan Library has drawn a significant conclusion—this piece is very likely an undiscovered waltz by Frédéric Chopin, one of the most celebrated composers of the Romantic period.

The manuscript, which the Morgan Library dates to between 1830 and 1835 when Chopin was in his early 20s, contains several distinctive features. While it is thought to be a complete piece, the work is unusually short compared to Chopin’s other waltzes, spanning only 48 measures with a repeat, giving it an approximate duration of 80 seconds. The piece is set in the key of A minor and showcases rare dynamic markings, including a striking triple forte near the beginning—an instruction for maximum volume that is atypical in Chopin’s compositions.

The discovery of this manuscript not only offers new insight into Chopin's creative development during his early years but also stands as a rare addition to his known body of work, potentially enriching our understanding of his evolving style during one of the most influential periods of his life.