**Historic Chopin Waltz Discovered After Almost Two Centuries**

**Curator Robinson McClellan authenticates the rare piece, believed to be written in Chopin's own hand, sparking excitement in the classical music community.**

A significant musical discovery has surfaced with the unearthing of a previously unknown waltz attributed to the eminent Polish composer Frederic Chopin. This rare manuscript, believed to have been penned between 1830 and 1835, was located in the vault of the Morgan Library and Museum in New York.

The manuscript came to light when curator Robinson McClellan was engaged in cataloguing new collections. Upon his discovery, McClellan sought the expertise of a leading authority on Chopin to verify the authenticity of the score. Although the manuscript bears no signature from Chopin himself, it possesses distinctive characteristics typical of the composer, including his recognizable bass clef handwriting.

Despite minor discrepancies in rhythm and notation, McClellan remains confident that the waltz is indeed the work of Chopin. “What we’re most certain about is that it is written in the hand of Chopin, on paper that he wrote on himself,” he shared during an interview with BBC's Newshour. He further stated, “I feel about 98% sure, and many who have heard it already sense it sounds like Chopin.”

The waltz opens with an unusual, stormy motif, leading to a melodic section that displays the defining qualities of Chopin's style. The renowned pianist Lang Lang has already recorded the piece, marking its public debut.

Chopin, known for his exceptional piano solos, lived a brief life, passing away at the age of 39 in France in 1849. His struggles with hallucinations and probable epilepsy have long intrigued musical scholars, adding layers to the mystery surrounding his life and untimely death.