Polish Dances

Polish National Dances
It is said that the temper of the Pole could be characterized by five national
dances.

The Pole is:
- as dignified as Polonez
- as elegant as Mazur
- as witty as Krakowiak
- as energetic as Oberek
- as melancholic as Kujawiak

Polonez

A ceremonial, traditional, national Polish dance. It has a restrained pace and is counted on three. This dance, more like a march in pairs, was in the past a part of a wedding party.
The first information about the dance appeared about four hundred years ago. In the past it was a part of the court ceremonial. The procession, headed by the most important pair, walked in front of the king.
It was danced through the centuries and it is now. It starts every important evening party (eg. the one the students have to celebrate the end of the high school education).

Mazur
A Polish national dance with a brisk pace. It comes from the Masuria region. Since XIX century it was danced at nobilities` mansions. Fryderyk Chopin used its characteristic elements in his creations.

Oberek
A Polish folk dance, characterized by a vibrant pace and bouncing melody. It is common for village people in many regions of Poland. It is often accompanied by folk songs and cheers. The name is associated with various revolutions during the dance.

Krakowiak
A vivacious dance from the land of Krakow. The name of it comes from XVIII century. In the beginning of XIX century it became popular in stage and instrumental music.

Kujawiak
It comes from the region of Kuyavia. The melody is very lyrical. The dance is made of gentle walk and revolutions.