The polka mazurka Vielliebchen (Sweetheart), which was composed in fact during the summer of 1855, belongs among the early works published by C. A. Spina. The illustrator of the title-page of the piano score was obviously of the opinion that the composer had chosen the name of a flower for his composition, and encircled the type on the title-page with a garland of leaves and flowers which cradled the figure of a maiden. However, in nineteenth-century Vienna, another usage was given to the word in certain party circles—a man and a woman would eat a piece of pastry from either end until the partners’ lips met in a kiss. This custom was known as Vielleibchen-Essen, or eating “sweethearts”. It is impossible to say whether Josef Strauss wrote his polka mazurka in the summer of 1855 in homage to gardens in bloom, or to a merry social diversion. In any case, the result was a singularly pleasant work, which furthered Josef’s reputation as a particularly sensitive composer in the polka mazurka category. Unfortunately, only the piano score of this early masterpiece has survived.<br /><br />Don't forget to subscribe and leave a comment, that would be helpful to improve my channel. Thank you!<br /><br />Painting: Dîner aux Ambassadeurs<br />Artist: Jean Béraud<br /><br />Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Kosice<br />Arthur Kulling
