Polonaise
An exploration of the traditional Polish national dance, its origins, musical influence, and cultural significance.
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Origin and Definition
Roots in Polish Tradition
The polonaise, known in Polish as polonez or chodzony, is a dance originating in Poland. It stands as one of the five esteemed Polish national dances, embodying a rich cultural heritage. The name chodzony itself, meaning "walking dance," reflects its fundamental character.[1]
European Ballroom Influence
While deeply rooted in Polish soil, the polonaise transcended its origins to influence European ballrooms, folk music traditions, and the classical music repertoire. Its distinctive rhythm and stately character found favor across the continent.[2]
Rhythm and Meter
The Characteristic 3/4 Time
The polonaise is characterized by its triple meter, specifically a time signature of 3/4. This rhythmic structure provides the dance with its characteristic stately and flowing quality.[1]
Connection to the Polska
Interestingly, the polonaise shares a rhythmic similarity with the Swedish polska dance. Both dances are believed to share a common origin, with the polska having been introduced to Sweden during the period of the Vasa dynasty and the Polish-Swedish union.[2]
Musical Influence and Notation
The "Alla Polacca" Directive
In musical scores, the indication alla polacca (Italian for "in the Polish style") signifies that a piece should be performed with the distinct rhythm and character of a polonaise. This notation has been employed by numerous composers across various eras.[5]
Notable Composers and Works
The polonaise has been a source of inspiration for many prominent composers:
- Baroque Era: Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel penned notable polonaises.
- Classical Era: Composers like Georg Philipp Telemann, Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Ludwig van Beethoven incorporated the polonaise style into their works. Beethoven's Triple Concerto (Op. 56) features a movement marked "Rondo alla polacca."
- Romantic Era: Frรฉdรฉric Chopin's polonaises are perhaps the most celebrated in classical music. Other composers include Franz Schubert, Carl Maria von Weber (whose Clarinet Concerto No. 2 finale is marked "Alla Polacca"), Clara Schumann, Robert Schumann, Franz Liszt, Moritz Moszkowski, Modest Mussorgsky, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (notably in his opera Eugene Onegin), and Alexander Scriabin.
- Later Composers: Edward Alexander MacDowell continued the tradition in the United States.
- John Philip Sousa composed the Presidential Polonaise, intended for White House receptions.
A Polish National Dance
Among the Elite Five
The polonaise holds a distinguished position as one of the five historic national dances of Poland. It stands alongside the Mazur (Mazurka), Kujawiak, Krakowiak, and Oberek, each representing a unique facet of Polish folk tradition.[6][7]
From Peasant Roots to Aristocratic Halls
Originating as a peasant dance known by various names such as chodzony ("pacer"), chmielowy ("hops"), or pieszy ("walker"), the polonaise's roots trace back to at least the 15th century. Over time, it gained significant popularity among urban populations and the nobility, evolving into a dance favored by the Polish aristocracy and developing an instrumental form.[8][9][2]
Contemporary Significance
Today, the polonaise remains a vibrant part of Polish culture. It traditionally opens major events, New Year's balls, and national celebrations. Notably, it serves as the ceremonial first dance at the studniรณwka, the traditional Polish "hundred days ball" held before final examinations, akin to a senior prom.[2]
Global Presence and Adaptations
Introduction in France
The polonaise entered French courts during the 17th century, gaining popularity across Europe. While the term "polonaise" became prevalent in France, the dance's Polish origins remained central to its identity.[10]
Saxony's Collection
Princess Anna Maria of Saxony was a notable collector of polonaise sheet music, amassing over 350 pieces, showcasing the dance's presence and appreciation within German aristocratic circles.[11]
Maluku Wedding Traditions
In the Maluku Islands, a dance known as the "polones" is a common feature of wedding receptions. This dance, likely influenced by the European polonaise, often resembles a country dance, ceilidh, or line dance.[12]
Visual Representations
Artistic Depictions
Historical paintings offer glimpses into the polonaise as danced through the ages:
- Jan Piotr Norblin's work depicts Polish noblemen engaged in the dance, capturing its social significance.
- Korneli Szlegel's painting illustrates Poles dancing the Polonez, showcasing traditional attire and movement.
- Kwiatkowski's painting portrays a scene titled "Chopin's Polonaise - a Ball in Hรดtel Lambert in Paris," highlighting the dance's connection to the composer and Parisian high society.
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References
References
- Roderyk Lange. Tradycyjny taniec ludowy w Polsce i jego przeobraร ยผenia w czasie i przestrzeni. PUNO. 1978. p. 40.
- Selma Jeanne Cohen. International encyclopedia of dance: a project of Dance Perspectives Foundation, Inc. Oxford University Press. 1998. p. 223.
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Important Notice
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