Johann Strauss II – Viennese Waltzes

Johann Strauss II – Viennese Waltzes

“Johann Strauss II” – Viennese Waltzes brings together seven of the Austrian composer’s most celebrated works, capturing the elegance, energy and unmistakable character of 19th-century Vienna. Strauss II became known as the “Waltz King”, and these compositions showcase the sophisticated orchestral style that transformed the Viennese waltz from ballroom entertainment into internationally celebrated concert music.

The collection opens with “The Blue Danube”, one of the most famous pieces in the entire classical repertoire. Strauss composed the work in 1866, with its first performance taking place in Vienna in February 1867. “Tales From The Vienna Woods” followed in 1868, incorporating folk-inspired elements and a distinctive zither part.

The programme then moves through several later Strauss favourites. “Wiener Blut” (Viennese Blood) dates from 1873, while “Du Und Du” comes from Strauss's 1874 operetta Die Fledermaus. “Gross-Wien”, one of his later waltzes, was composed in 1891, demonstrating the remarkable longevity of Strauss's contribution to Viennese dance music.

“Vienna Bonbons”, Op. 307, dates from 1866, making it one of the earliest works represented here, while “In Praise Of Women” (Frauenlob) adds another example of Strauss's characteristic melodic elegance. Taken together, the programme spans approximately 25 years of Strauss II's career, from the golden age of the Viennese waltz in the 1860s through to the composer's mature later period.

A superb classical collection for listeners and collectors interested in Johann Strauss II, Viennese waltzes, Austrian classical music, Romantic orchestral music and traditional European dance music, featuring some of the most recognisable melodies ever written for the ballroom and concert hall.

Tracklist

1. Tales From The Vienna Woods – 1868
2. The Blue Danube – 1866–1867
3. Gross-Wien – 1891
4. Wiener Blut – 1873
5. Vienna Bonbons – 1866
6. In Praise Of Women
7. Du Und Du – 1874