Czech music
Bohemian polka is undoubtedly the most famous dance. This dance type is also
highly appreciated at the international level. Polka became popular in Europe in
the 19th century. It is a duple time dance which is spread across the world.
Polka influences music from Japan to Mexico. A good example is Skoda lasky (of
the year 1927). The melodies of the Beer Barrel Polka are derived from this,
although the lyrics are not derived from the same.
In Chodsko Bohemian traditional music is at its innovative best. There bagpipes
are very commonly seen. The cimbalom makes Moravian traditional Czech music very
well known. It is played in ensembles, which includes clarinet , violins, and
double bass. Displays foreign influences can be traced in the traditional Czech
music of the regions of Moravia. This can be most traced in Lachia with its
Polish aspects and in Valachia with its Romanian history.
Pub songs called Staroprazske pisnicky made very well known Prague .these were
mainly the old Prague Songs. These are greatly influenced by Viennese
schrammelmusik. Bands like Slapeto, which still play these songs. Tramp music (trampska
hudba) is nothing but a more modernized form of urban Czech music.
Since its
invention as part of the Czech tramping movement Tramp, music has been popular.
This movement began when early 20th century city-dwellers of Czech Republic
began seeking imaginative and physical respite from the pressures of modern city
life.
Visitors of English-speaking nature who listen to the Czech radio are often
surprised at the discovery of lyrics sung in Czech but in a very familiar tune.
Apart from these imported pop music, rock and roll has also become a predominant
genre. These are often influenced by the more traditional styles of Czech music.