Mazurkas
L'Innamorata, Op.129, PP.142.2
The autograph score is undated; however, L'Innamorata's appearance on one of the first concerts under the new regime marks it as an early work. The part for a student on E-flat cornet is only the first of several signs that this work reflects the new technology of the band Ponchielli had sought from the parsimonious Piacentini.
The universal popularity of what began as a Polish dance with the accent on the second beat is, in an Italian translation, a popular dance with the accent on the third beat. In the Wikipedia article, no mention is made of an Italian tradition, thus one might surmise that this Mazurka arrived with the Austrian rule that remained in some control until 1866.
This is, of course, a sparkling work that illustrates wonderfully Ponchielli's ability to please his civic audiences in twice-weekly, open-air concerts. No documents have come down to this effect; though one cannot imagine that members of the audience would not take the opportunity to dance. The band also played many private balls, especially for Carnevale - Mardi gras for fees that could equal several months' wages for the common man.
Date on score: None Given
Performances: Sunday, February 25, 1866, Piazza Garabaldi; Sunday, July 19, 1868, Passaggio pubblico; Sunday, July 26, 1868, Baluardo del Passaggio pubblico; Saturday, July 13, 1873, Passaggio pubblico