A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Polska

by William Barclay Squire

POLSKA, a national Swedish dance, popular in West Gothland, something like a Scotch reel in character. Polskas are usually written in minor keys, although they are occasionally found in the major. The example which is given below ('Neckens Polska') is well known, as Ambroise Thomas has introduced it in Ophelia's mad scene in 'Hamlet.' Other examples will be found in Ahlstrom's 'Walda Svenska Folksånga' (Stockholm, 1850).

[ W. B. S. ]