Polonaise 15th century. In later centuries it gained popularity among the nobility and townspeople. Polonaise in French Courts The polonaise or "polonez", was first introduced in the 17th century in French courts, although the form originated in Poland and was very popular throughout Europe. This dance in 3/4 meter was designed to entertain the French royal court. The term polonaise was used over the term "polonez" at the start of the 18th century. Princess Anna Maria of Saxony Princess Anna Maria of Saxony collected polonaises throughout her life time, collecting over 350. Her collection was focused on the finest examples of
Polonaise, Op. 89 (Beethoven) a precursor to Chopin's more well-known polonaises. The piece is marked "Alla Polacca, vivace" (as a polonaise, lively)"." After four measures, there is a brief barless passage of ascending and descending scales moving to "adagio" (slow) and then to "più presto" (faster). At the conclusion of this unusual introduction, the piece returns to the first tempo and meter, and the polonaise rhythm and main theme are introduced. The piece ends with a lengthy coda. It takes about five minutes to perform. Polonaise, Op. 89 (Beethoven) The Polonaise in C major, Op. 89, by Ludwig van Beethoven is a polonaise for