Vergnügungszug (Polka) - Johann Strauss

As many composers in those days Johann Strauss also wrote a piece celebrating technological innovation. 'Vergnügungszug' (Pleasure Train) was written for the Association of Industrial Societies’ Ball and was inspired by the opening of the 'Austrian Southern Railway'. It's a vividly descriptive polka, remarkable for its use of triangles in imitation of train bells and of horns to suggest the chuffing of the train. The polka, like the train's journey, has to end, however, and Strauss powers home the conclusion with high chords before a resounding flourish underlined by a powerful roll on the snare drum.