The University of Sydney recently acquired a collection of first and rare editions of works by Mozart and Beethoven, named after its donor Richard Charteris. Miriam Cosic explains why original manuscripts and early editions are so important in helping musicians understand the composer’s intention, and an invaluable tool in deciding how best to perform their works.

Charteris Collection. Photo © University of Sydney/Vanessa Low

Several years ago, I was stunned while investigating the Vivaldi manuscript collection. It’s not held in Venice, where he was born and composed most of his music, but – long story – in the National University Library of Turin. When I told the curator that Orlando furioso was my favourite Vivaldi opera, she disappeared for...