Johann Strauss II
Polka (schnell)
op. 281
Arrangement for
Percussion Quartet
Large Percussion Ensemble
Leonhard Waltersdorfer
Vergnügungszug is an arrangement of Johann Strauss’ well-known polka, conceived as a double-sided score for percussion quartet and large percussion ensemble (6–11 players).
The piece plays with the idea of a fast-moving train journey. Sound effects such as sandpaper blocks, bass drum played with a brush, and a train whistle are used to evoke the characteristic noises of a steam locomotive, giving the arrangement a vivid, almost theatrical character.
The percussion quartet version presents a compact and clearly structured setting of the piece.
In the large ensemble version, the instrumentation is expanded and distributed more flexibly, allowing the musical material to be adapted to different ensemble sizes.
Both versions may be performed independently or combined within a single performance.
Instruments set in italics are optional.
The score for large percussion ensemble uses color coding to indicate the relative difficulty levels of the individual parts, supporting balanced ensemble planning.
These indicators are specific to the ensemble setting and should not be compared directly with difficulty levels in solo or duo repertoire.
Julius Fučík
arranged by
Leonhard Waltersdorfer
Josef Strauss & Johann Strauss II
arranged by
Leonhard Waltersdorfer
Émile Waldteufel
arranged by
Leonhard Waltersdorfer
