Newly Authenticated Bach Organ Works Performed After 320 Years
Newly identified organ works by Johann Sebastian Bach have been presented and performed in Germany, marking their first public performance in 320 years. The two pieces, the Chaconne in D minor BWV 1178 and Chaconne in G minor BWV 1179, were previously undated and unsigned.
Discovery and Authentication Process
The pieces were initially noted by Peter Wollny, a researcher specializing in Bach, in 1992 while he was cataloguing Bach manuscripts at the Royal Library of Belgium in Brussels. Mr. Wollny subsequently dedicated three decades to confirming the authorship of the works. He is currently the director of the Bach Archive in Leipzig.
At a recent presentation, Mr. Wollny stated a 99.99% certainty regarding Bach's authorship. He indicated that the works exhibit several characteristics unique to Bach's compositional style from that period, differentiating them from other composers of the era. The pieces are believed to have been transcribed in 1705 by Salomon Günther John, one of Bach's pupils.
Performance Details
The world premiere performance of these works took place at the St. Thomas Church in Leipzig. This location holds historical significance as Bach's burial place and where he served as a cantor for 27 years. Dutch organist Ton Koopman performed the pieces, expressing satisfaction at presenting them for the first time in 320 years. Koopman characterized the pieces as 'of a very high quality' and noted their potential as 'a great asset for organists today,' highlighting their suitability for smaller organs.
Historical Context and Official Recognition
The works are believed to have been composed early in Bach's career, during his tenure as an organ teacher in Arnstadt, Thuringia. Following the authentication process, the two chaconnes have now been officially added to the catalogue of Bach's complete works. Germany's Culture Minister Wolfram Weimer commented on the significance of the discovery for the global music community.