Mozart’s Lost Sonata Found in Malta’s National Library

In the dusty corners of Malta’s National Library, a French curator has stumbled upon a musical treasure hidden in plain sight. Amongst anonymous manuscripts, a rare score by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart has emerged, offering a glimpse into the composer’s early genius.

Unveiling the Mystery

Dr. Sophie Leclair, a curator from the Bibliothèque nationale de France, was in Malta to study the library’s collection of French literature. Her keen eye and passion for music led her to explore the library’s less-known manuscripts. “I was drawn to a bundle of sheets that seemed out of place,” she recalls. “The handwriting was elegant, and the music notation was unlike anything else I’d seen.”

Upon closer inspection, she discovered a score marked with the initials ‘A.L.’, believed to be Anna Luigia, Mozart’s first love. The piece, a sonata for keyboard, bears striking resemblance to Mozart’s early works. Dating back to around 1770, when Mozart was just 14, this could be one of his earliest compositions.

Malta’s Musical History

Malta’s National Library, housed in the historic Auberge de Provence, is no stranger to hidden gems. The library’s collection includes manuscripts dating back to the 15th century, many of which are yet to be fully explored. This latest find adds to Malta’s rich musical history, which includes the birthplace of the Maltese composer and organist Nicolo Isouard.

Dr. Leclair’s discovery has sparked excitement among local music enthusiasts and historians. “This is a significant find,” says Dr. Joseph Vella, a Maltese musicologist. “It not only sheds light on Mozart’s early development but also highlights Malta’s role in preserving European cultural heritage.”

Next Steps

The manuscript will undergo further analysis and authentication. If verified, it could be performed for the first time in over two centuries. The National Library is also considering a temporary exhibition to showcase this rare find.

“We’re thrilled to have played a part in this discovery,” says Dr. Jeffrey Caruana, Director of the National Library. “It’s a testament to our cultural heritage and the value of international collaboration.”