Popper - Polonaise de Concert No. 2, Op. 28 (Urtext Edition)

David Popper composed three polonaises. The first two bear the title Concert-Polonaise, though the first, Op. 14, became better known in later Hofmeister printings as Polonaise de Concert. Of the three, the D-minor Op. 14 remains the most popular, while the second Concert-Polonaise in F major, Op. 28, is the most festive in character. Its brilliance, pomp, and trumpet-like fanfares recall the orchestral polonaises of Russian composers such as Tchaikovsky and Lyadov.

Published by Hofmeister in 1880, Popper’s Concert-Polonaise in F major, Op. 28, bears no dedication. The work is cast in rondo form, with a shortened reprise of the opening section at the end. Its main theme is derived from a brief melodic fragment near the conclusion of the first polonaise, creating a subtle thematic link between the two works. The expansive D-major and B-flat major episodes provide lyrical and virtuosic contrast to the more concise recurring sections. Although the accompaniment suggests orchestral textures, Popper never orchestrated the work, and no orchestration by another hand is known.

This edition is based on the first edition published by Hofmeister, plate number 7824. All editorial changes and deviations from the original text are indicated in the score.

Best suited for advanced cellists, this Concert-Polonaise is an effective recital or competition work for players looking for festive Romantic virtuosity beyond Popper’s more frequently performed pieces. It offers opportunities to develop brilliant passagework, polonaise rhythm, fanfare-like character, lyrical contrast, large-scale pacing, and a commanding concert style.

ASTA level: 4