Lost Mozart Score Found in Malta’s National Library

In the quiet, dusty corners of Valletta’s National Library, a French curator has stumbled upon a musical treasure that has remained hidden for over two centuries. Amongst anonymous manuscripts, Jean-Marc Chouly discovered a rare score of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s ‘Exsultate, Jubilate’, a piece believed to have been lost to history.

Unveiling a Musical Secret

Chouly, a specialist in Mozart’s works, was in Malta as part of a research project when he came across the priceless find. The manuscript, dated 1773, predates the first known printed version by a decade. It’s a significant discovery, offering new insights into Mozart’s early compositional style and his relationship with the Vatican.

Malta’s Musical Heritage Revisited

Malta’s musical heritage is often overshadowed by its rich historical and architectural sites. However, this discovery underscores the islands’ significant role in the history of classical music. The National Library, housed in the historic Auberge de Provence, is a treasure trove of such hidden gems, waiting to be unearthed.

For music enthusiasts, this find is a golden opportunity to explore Malta’s musical past. The National Museum of Fine Arts, just a stone’s throw away from the library in Republic Street, is home to a collection of musical instruments that date back to the 18th century. It’s a perfect starting point to look the islands’ musical heritage.

What’s Next for Mozart’s Lost Score?

Chouly, who has published extensively on Mozart, plans to authenticate the manuscript and hopes to see it performed in Malta. He envisions a concert in the grandeur of St. John’s Co-Cathedral, where the echoes of Mozart’s music would resonate with the very walls that have stood witness to Malta’s rich history.

As for the National Library, this discovery serves as a reminder of the wealth of knowledge and art that lies within its walls, waiting to be discovered and shared with the world.