Die Amazone, Polka Mazurka, Op. 49 - Josef Strauss

"The Amazon". In 1858, the legendary Amazon made her way into compositions that Josef named after the female figures. In greek mythology, Amanzons were portrayed as warlike folk women. But in the nineteenth century, it was common for liberated ladies also to be called Amazons. In fact, the title page of the piano score of this polka depicts an elegant lady in a riding habit; she does not give the impression of being warlike, but rather self-assured. It was performed for the first time during the 1858 carnival season, perhaps the premiere was at a private ball. This was one work in which Josef Strauss created a completely new dimension on Viennese music in polka-mazurka rhythm.

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Painting: Departure of the Amazons
Artist: Claude Deruet
Date: 1620

Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Kosice
Mika Eichenholz