Pizzicato Polka
“With Just a Few…” Series – by Martha Lynn Thompson
for 6 or 7 ringers… or fewer
Catalog: 1200
Title: Pizzicato Polka
Composer: Johann and Josef Strauss
Arranger: Martha Lynn Thompson
Handbells used: 3 octaves C5 – C7
Handchimes used: n/a
Level: 3
REPRODUCIBLE
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This delightful polka by the Stauss brothers – Johann and Josef – was written for plucked strings and glockenspiel in advance of a trip to Russia where it was to be performed. It became very popular throughout Europe and is still featured in orchestral concerts. There are four distinct “cheeky” and delightful melodies ending with a recap of the original and ending in a coda. Martha Lynn has arranged this for handbells malleted on the table throughout with the exception of two chords with fermatas that are Rung. It was written using contrary motion which allows the melodies to be heard more clearly and it is intentionally scored at mp dynamic so it remains light and playful. This is a fun and accessible work that will be a wonderful addition to any concert!It became very popular throughout Europe and is still featured in orchestral concerts
- Octave Ranges
- 3 Octaves
- Solos & Ensembles
- Quintets and more
- Themes
- Classical Arrangements
Novelty Pieces
School and Youth
Secular - general usage
Weddings - Level of Difficulty
- Level 2