Prinz Eugen-Marsch, Op. 186 - Josef Strauss

"Prince Eugene, March". For the construction of the new Hofburg, Emperor Franz Joseph ordered the erection of two equestrian statues to mark the ‘Heldenplatz.’ In 1860, the first of the two monuments was completed, this one was dedicated to Archduke Carl. In the Autumn of 1865, the second equestrian statue was completed, depicting the Austrian field marshal of the wars against the Turks during the seventeenth century, Prince Eugene of Savoy (1663-1736). The sculptor of both statues was Anton Fernkorn. The unveiling of the monument was a solemn official act, in accordance with Emperor Franz Joseph’s wishes, and was obviously attended by the monarch himself. Thousands of people gathered on 18 October 1865 on the Heldenplatz and celebrated together with the Emperor the memorial to the field marshal. Josef Strauss anticipated the unveiling ceremony and performed his Prinz Eugen-Marsch, which he created "using popular melodies", at the charity concert on 8th October 1865 in the Volksgarten. It is obvious that the composer quoted the historic song Prinz Eugen, der edle Ritter in his march, as well as using an old military song. But it has not been possible, to date, to verify the origin of this motif. The Prinz Eugen-Marsch by Josef Strauss appeared in print only as a piano edition.

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Painting: Reoccupation of Buda castel in 1686, in the centre, Prince Eugene of Savoy
Artist: Gyula Benczúr
Date: 1896

Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Kosice
Christian Pollack