Stefan Schwalgin

Introduction to a Polka

An artist's muse is sometimes a very unreliable lady. Because when Stefan Schwalgin was writing the slow introduction to a cozy Bohemian polka, it happened: He involuntarily found himself in a fast-paced big band swing in his piece, which then just wouldn't stop for almost three minutes. The actual polka was then extremely short, as the allotted time had been exhausted. What was left was above all a grandiose "introduction" that is probably unparalleled...

With the humorous "Introduction to a Polka", RUNDEL presents a furious swing that lets the wind orchestra shine in a gripping big band sound. And the gag with the "thwarted polka composer" is guaranteed to get a laugh from the band and the audience. Everything that sounds virtuosic and technically difficult in this brilliant number (eighth-note figures in the woodwinds) is thankfully laid out in terms of fingering and is much easier to handle than it seems. Enjoy!