The Five National Dances of Poland
The National Dances of Poland are The Polonaise, Kujawiak, Mazur, Oberek, and Krakowiak. We have a video example and description of each of these Polish folk dances. Enjoy!
PolonaiseThe Polonaise or Polonez, evolved from a dance called the Chodzony (Walking Dance) in the 15th century. As you might guess from the description the dancers walk around the dance floor. It was danced even by royalty and nobility.
KujawiakThe Kujawiak has its origins from the Kujawy region. It is a simple slow dance with much dignity that appeared in the 19th century.It is a beautiful romantic dance.
MazurThe Mazur's origin is from Kujawy, but got its name from Mazovia the region around Warsaw. This dance was known in the 16th century and it's rhythm was used by Chopin to create some of his master pieces. Mazur was embellished into an intricate swift moving elegant dance, cherished by the social elite and eventually became the Polish National Anthem.
OberekThe Oberek came from the Mazowsze region of Poland. Its name comes from the Polish verb obracac sie which means to spin. It is the fastest of the Polish Folk Dances. Obereks were very lively and difficult to dance and it's rhythm mostly remained a polish treasure.
KrakowiakThe Krakowiak origined in Krakow and the Malopolska region back in the 16th century. The Krakowiak has a syncopated rhythm and again was a musical base for Chopin. It is truly known as Poland's true national dance.
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