Composer

:

Johann Strauss II

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Polka

Compose Date

:

1857

Publication Date

:

1858

Average_duration

:

4:54

Alexandrinen-Polka, Op. 198 (RV 198) is a lively and cheerful polka composed by Johann Strauss II, the famous Austrian composer of the 19th century. The piece was composed in 1856 and premiered on October 12, 1856, at the Redoutensaal in Vienna, Austria. The polka is named after Princess Alexandrine of Baden, who was the wife of Archduke Joseph of Austria. The couple was known for their love of music and dance, and Johann Strauss II was a frequent guest at their court. The polka was composed as a tribute to the princess and was dedicated to her. The Alexandrinen-Polka is a relatively short piece, consisting of only one movement. It is written in the traditional polka form, with a lively and energetic tempo and a strong emphasis on the first beat of each measure. The piece is characterized by its catchy melody, which is played by the violins and other string instruments, and its lively rhythm, which is provided by the percussion and brass sections. The polka begins with a short introduction, which sets the tone for the rest of the piece. The main melody is then introduced, played by the violins and other string instruments. The melody is repeated several times throughout the piece, with variations and embellishments added each time. The middle section of the polka features a more subdued melody, played by the woodwind instruments, before returning to the main theme for the final section. Overall, the Alexandrinen-Polka is a joyful and celebratory piece of music, which captures the spirit of the court of Archduke Joseph and Princess Alexandrine. It is a testament to Johann Strauss II's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both entertaining and memorable.

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