Czech roots - Popular today across various cultures, polka originated in 19th-century Bohemia, now part of the Czech Republic.
Origin story - Polka's origin story first appeared in the periodical 'Bohemia' in 1844. It attributed the style to Anna Slezáková, a young farmworker who created the "polka step."
Etymology - There are two theories about the origin of the word "polka." Some believe that it's derived from the Czech word Polka, meaning "Polish woman."
The sound of polka - Polka is known for the distinctive sound of the accordion, which acts as the foundation of the music. Basically, it's the star of polka music.
Polka dance - Apart from the characteristic music, polka is also a distinctive couple dance, which combines three rapid steps and a hop.
'Beer Barrel Polka' - The song 'Beer Barrel Polka' achieved worldwide popularity during World War II. A hit among soldiers, it had many versions in different languages.
Polka styles - Besides the original Czech polka, there are many different styles that developed across the world.
Polish style - Polish-style polka originated in Chicago with Czech and Polish minorities. It has two sub styles: the "Chicago Honky" and the "Chicago Push."
Polka in the classical repertoire - During the Romantic Period, Eastern and Central European composers, like Bedřich Smetana, composed polkas.
Polka Music Month is born - To promote polka, musicians in Chicago organized the first ever Polka Music Month in 1968.