University of Huddersfield student discovers rediscovered music by Italian composer Antonio Salieri, to be performed after 200 years
In a remarkable find, a University of Huddersfield student has uncovered a lost ballet composed by Italian maestro Antonio Salieri. The music, believed to have been lost for over two centuries, was found by PhD student Ellen Stokes in the archive of an Austrian library. The ballet, titled Pafio e Mirra, was originally written for Salieri’s opera Europe Riconosciuta and will now be performed by the Lincoln Pro Musica Orchestra. This historic event marks the first time the ballet will be heard in its full version since its premiere in 1778. Stokes’ discovery sheds new light on Salieri’s work and offers a glimpse into the composer’s artistic genius.
A Serendipitous Discovery
Ellen Stokes, a PhD student at the University of Huddersfield, stumbled upon the lost ballet while conducting research at the Austria National Library in Vienna. She found the piece, which had been written for Salieri’s opera Europe Riconosciuta, “jumbled up” within the pages of four manuscripts. The ballet, called Pafio e Mirra, was believed to have been lost in its entirety, with scholars assuming it only existed in fragments. Stokes’ serendipitous discovery has now revealed the complete ballet and has sparked excitement among music enthusiasts and scholars alike.
Unveiling Salieri’s Artistry
Pafio e Mirra was an integral part of Salieri’s breakthrough opera, commissioned by Gluck and premiered in Milan in 1778. However, subsequent performances of the opera excluded the ballet section, leading to the belief that it had been lost. Stokes’ research has challenged this assumption, shedding light on the significance of the ballet within the context of the opera. She explains that it was uncommon for composers in the 18th century to write the ballet for their own operas, as it was considered of lesser importance. This rediscovered ballet provides a unique opportunity to experience Salieri’s artistic vision and appreciate his contributions to the genre.
The Journey of Rediscovery
Ellen Stokes commended the Austrian library’s online resources, which aided her in her research journey. Delving into the archive, she meticulously examined each page of the manuscripts, searching for watermarks and other clues. Salieri’s own notes, scribbled in Italian around the edges of the manuscripts, proved instrumental in identifying the ballet section. The presence of a watermark specific to Milan further confirmed the authenticity of the rediscovered piece. Stokes’ persistence and dedication to her research have allowed for the resurrection of a forgotten masterpiece.
The Significance of the Find
Dr. Steven Jan, Stokes’ PhD supervisor, emphasized the importance of musicology in uncovering lost treasures. He praised Stokes’ diligence and lateral thinking, highlighting how researchers must piece together fragmented evidence to create a coherent narrative. This discovery not only adds to our understanding of Salieri’s oeuvre but also provides valuable insights into the musical landscape of the 18th century. The performance of Pafio e Mirra in its full version offers a rare glimpse into the genius of Salieri, allowing audiences to appreciate his contributions to the world of classical music.
Salieri’s Legacy and Notoriety
Antonio Salieri, a prominent composer in his time, is often overshadowed by the infamous rumors surrounding his involvement in the death of his rival, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. These rumors were further sensationalized in Peter Shaffer’s play Amadeus, which was adapted into an Oscar-winning film in 1984. However, this discovery of the lost ballet showcases Salieri’s talent and reaffirms his rightful place in the pantheon of classical composers. It serves as a reminder that Salieri’s contributions to music extend far beyond the myths and legends surrounding his rivalry with Mozart.
Conclusion:
The rediscovery of Antonio Salieri’s lost ballet, Pafio e Mirra, marks a significant milestone in the world of classical music. Ellen Stokes’ remarkable find has brought this forgotten masterpiece back to life, allowing audiences to experience Salieri’s genius in its full glory. The performance of the ballet by the Lincoln Pro Musica Orchestra not only celebrates Salieri’s artistic legacy but also highlights the importance of musicology in unearthing hidden treasures. This historic event serves as a testament to the enduring power of music and the dedication of those who strive to preserve and revive forgotten works of art.
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