Chineser-Galoppe op20

Johann Strauss I

Chineser-Galoppe (Chinese Galops), Op.20

A forerunner and close relation of both the Viennese polka and the French can-can, the galop was perhaps the most energetic of all ballroom dances in the first half of the nineteenth century. Before the polka overtook it in popularity the elder Johann Strauss wrote dozens of them, none more exotic than the Chineser-Galoppe (not even the Cachucha to be heard later in the programme). More middle-eastern than far-eastern to our ears, it’s a delightful little inspiration originally scored for a chamber ensemble of four strings with flute, clarinet and two horns.