Scored for 3 Violins (or 2 Violins & Viola) and Double Bass (or Cello).

Josef Strauss was arguably the most talented of the Strauss dynasty, although his brother Johann was certainly the most successful. The Jockey Polka, composed in 1870, was one of Josef's last compositions and is a fast and lively polka which is full of fun, rhythmic energy and great forward momentum. It is playable by a variety of string quartets and is evocative of the dance music of the 19th-century. Easy for the bassist, but full of high spirits and always successful in performance.

Who will be first past the finishing post?

"The Jockey Polka, arranged by David Heyes and recently published by Recital Music, is a punchy piece for an ensemble that has been slightly neglected in recent times.
David Heyes, a great enthusiast for violin and double bass combinations, has added a fantastic arrangement for string players, young or slightly more mature! Ideal for a young ensemble, it could be used as a perfect starter piece for playing in any chamber group. Attention to detail, dynamics, articulation and keeping a good pulse, just some of the skills that could be nurtured in this work.
After a four-bar intro in unison, the first and second violins take up the melody while the third violin provides a rhythmic accompaniment with the use of double stops, although not terribly tricky ones. The bass provides the traditional polka bass line pretty much throughout. There follows a Trio section with first and second violins playing a 3rd apart (good for improving intonation), and employing the use of accidentals. This leads to the finale which is a romp to the finish line. The first violin part does require the use of fifth position while the second part only has brief moments in third. It is a great arrangement and I'm sure would become a firm favourite with any group who choose to play it. [ESTA - News & Views]

Performance Level: 6;7