When you think of Gaetano Donizetti (1797–1848), possibly the first opera that comes to mind is L’Elisir d’amore. And what is the first aria that comes to mind? Most probably the one for the tenor Nemorino at the beginning of the Second Act that begins with the words “una furtiva lagrima …” ("a stealthy tear …").

What you possibly didn’t know is that this very melody was secretly penned by Donizetti in a sketch for piano solo that he treasured hidden in his wallet—folding lines can still be seen on the autograph manuscript in Bergamo. Editor Fabrizio Capitanio is thrilled to present to us this long lost gem in a new, clean, and clearly laid out edition. A detailed introduction tells of how this piece ended up being included in the opera, even if poet and librettist Felice Romani was not so convinced of it.