Diplomaten-Polka, Polka française, Op. 448

Program notes

About the Work

The Diplomaten-Polka (‘Diplomats’ Polka’) is a polka française by Johann Strauss II, a late work from a composer whose mastery of the smaller dance forms never flagged. Unlike the headlong polka schnell, the polka française (‘French polka’) is a moderate, graceful dance in a comfortable strolling tempo, more poised and elegant than its breakneck cousin. The title’s nod to diplomacy suits this air of suave refinement; one can imagine the measured, courteous bearing of statesmen at a court ball. Strauss wrote dozens of polkas in this genre, each a perfectly turned miniature, and they form an essential part of the New Year’s Concert’s variety, supplying moments of relaxed charm between the grand waltzes and the dashing fast polkas. This one displays the Waltz King’s effortless melodic invention working at modest scale.

What to Listen For

The polka française moves at a comfortable, swaying pace. Listen for its even, unhurried two-beat rhythm and the gentle, almost conversational character of the tunes. Strauss decorates the melody with elegant woodwind touches and graceful turns of phrase, and the central trio offers a contrasting strain before the opening returns. The mood throughout is one of polished good humour rather than excitement: courtly poise set to music.