Paganini’s well-known Sonata a Preghiera M.S. 23 was published in 1855 by Schuberth & Co in Hamburg, but without the short introduction that Paganini customarily provided for all his concert works. Following the recent rediscovery of a manuscript entitled “Preghiera del Mosè / di / Paganini / Parte del Pianoforte” at Parma’s Palatina Library, the work’s introductory section has now been restored.

Research at the Palatina Library by Luca Fanfoni and Dr. Danilo Prefumo also unearthed other rarities that are included on this CD:

The three Ritornelli, early works for two violins and cello.

The six virtuoso Preludes for violin, which display hints of the future Capricci.

And a mature work, the demanding Rondò for violin and cello M.S. 63.

The CD ends with the original version for violin and guitar of the Grande Concerto in E minor M.S. 75, in which the violin part already displays the unmistakable traits of Paganini’s style.