Johann Strauss (Sohn), Josef Strauss

Pizzicato-Polka

Originally this work was written for string players, and the title says it all: the strings were played pizzicato, i. e. plucked with the fingers. You can imitate the effect of the 'short notes' on the recorder perfectly well. This airy and humorous polka requires a playful performance: experimenting with the tempo is the motto. When it comes to playing together, Pizzicato Polka is not always easy: additional evidence of the quality of the Viennese orchestras of the day. For ensembles that do not have a bass recorder at their disposal, an alternative part for tenor recorder has also been provided. A performance with five recorders is possible as well, using this extra part to reinforce the bass melody. Johann Strauss II wrote the famous Pizzicato Polka together with his brother Josef.