Johann Strauss I sometimes borrowed themes for his compositions, as evidenced by works like the Cachucha-Galopp (1837) and this sprightly piece, the Gitana-Galopp. The Gitana in the title refers to Gypsy, but the themes are of Spanish origin and appeared in several stage works by Auber in the 1830s. Strauss became familiar with them from the Auber ballet La Gitana, premiered in St. Petersburg in 1838. But it was when the ballet was taken to Vienna the following year that Strauss saw it and became attracted to its themes. For all the Spanish flavors that emerge in his Gitana-Galopp, Strauss manages to impart a Viennese nonchalance and grace to the dance character. The scoring features much writing in the upper ranges for the strings and piccolo, imparting a playful, impish sense to the music. The opening theme races about in short phrases, closing with a downward plunge whose little upward curl at the end gives it a soft landing. The music throughout conveys much the same high spirits and playful manner. Lasting about two-and-a-half minutes, this piece will appeal to most listeners with an interest in the light classics.

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