MOST FAMOUS WORKS BY JOHANN STRAUSS
Johann Strauss II, often referred to as the “Waltz King”, is one of the most famous composers of the 19th century. He significantly shaped the Viennese music scene and left behind a vast musical legacy, ranging from lively waltzes and vibrant polkas to operettas. Many of his compositions remain internationally renowned and are performed at concerts and balls around the world to this day. His waltzes and operettas in particular are outstanding examples of his ability to blend catchy melodies and light, danceable rhythms with complex musical structures. Many of his pieces are closely associated with Viennese culture and society of the time; they are synonymous with the elegance and joy of life in old Vienna.
Compositions like “The Blue Danube” and “Die Fledermaus” continue to be staples in the repertoires of classical orchestras and opera houses worldwide. This article takes a look at his most famous and beloved works, which have made Johann Strauss a timeless icon in music history.
Nordseebilder (1863)
The waltz “Nordseebilder” was composed in 1863 by Johann Strauss II and reflects his fascination with the sea and travel. Strauss most likely drew inspiration for the work from the idyllic seascapes and the rugged nature of the North Sea. The waltz premiered in 1863 in Pavlovsk near St. Petersburg, where Strauss enjoyed great success during his tour of Russia. With its gentle yet lively melodies, the waltz seeks to musically capture the vastness and beauty of the North Sea.
An der schönen blauen Donau (1867)
The waltz “The Blue Danube” is probably Johann Strauss II’s most famous work. It was premiered in Vienna in 1867 and was originally intended as a choral waltz for the “Wiener Männergesangverein”. Although the first performance was not an overwhelming success, the piece became a classic in the following years and is now considered the unofficial anthem of Vienna. The waltz is especially known for its lyrical melodies and flowing, elegant rhythms, which musically capture the image of the blue Danube. “The Blue Danube” is performed worldwide, especially at the annual Vienna New Year’s Concert, and remains a symbol of Viennese musical culture.
Künstlerleben (1867)
“Artist’s Life” is a waltz composed in 1867 – the same year as “The Blue Danube”. It was written as a tribute to the artists of Vienna and conveys the city’s lively and creative atmosphere. “Artist’s Life” was a great success at its premiere and remains popular to this day, as the waltz transports a festive yet nostalgic mood. It is often played as a complement to or in connection with “The Blue Danube” to emphasize the characteristic charm of the Viennese waltz tradition.
Geschichten aus dem Wienerwald (1868)
“Tales from the Vienna Woods”, composed in 1868, is one more of Strauss’s most famous waltzes. This piece is especially known for its use of the zither, which gives it a rustic and folkloric character. The waltz takes the listener on a musical journey through the idyllic landscape around Vienna, capturing the essence of nature and the Viennese lifestyle. Due to its serene and picturesque mood, “Tales from the Vienna Woods” remains a popular concert piece and is a prime example of Strauss’s versatility as a composer.
Frühlingsstimmen (1882)
“Voices of Spring” is a concert waltz composed in 1882 and was originally intended as a vocal piece for the soprano Bertha Schwarz. The waltz is a musical homage to spring and is characterized by its lively, joyful melodies that celebrate the awakening of nature. At its premiere, “Voices of Spring” was a great success and quickly became one of Strauss’s most popular concert pieces. Today, it is often performed in an instrumental version and remains a staple of the classical repertoire.
Kaiser-Walzer (1889)
The “Emperor Waltz” was composed in 1889 to mark a meeting between Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria and Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany, symbolizing the bond between the two nations. The waltz is majestic and solemn, distinguishing it from many of Strauss’s other waltzes. With its elegant melodies and grand orchestral arrangements, the “Emperor Waltz” remains a highlight of the Vienna New Year’s Concert and is celebrated worldwide as a symbol of the splendor and musical heritage of imperial Vienna.
Seid umschlungen, Millionen (1892)
The waltz “Seid umschlungen, Millionen” was composed in 1892, inspired by the famous verse from the poet Friedrich Schiller, which is also quoted in Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. Strauss dedicated the work to a humanitarian ideal and wrote it for a benefit concert. The premiere also took place in Vienna in 1892 and was enthusiastically received. The waltz combines majestic and uplifting sounds that express the idea of unity and connection among nations. It remains a significant work by Strauss with a philosophical undertone.
Die Fledermaus Ouvertüre (1874)
“Die Fledermaus” is an operetta that premiered in 1874 at the Theater an der Wien. It is considered one of Johann Strauss’s most successful and popular operettas and it has had a lasting impact on the genre.
The plot revolves around a series of intrigues, mix-ups, and comic misunderstandings at a masquerade ball hosted by Prince Orlofsky. The wealthy Gabriel von Eisenstein is supposed to serve a prison sentence, but his friend Dr. Falke persuades him to attend the ball first. At the event, Eisenstein fails to recognize that his own wife, Rosalinde, is also present in disguise. Throughout the night, comedic misunderstandings and masquerades unfold, which are finally resolved the next morning in prison. The operetta concludes with a humorous unraveling of the complications and a message of forgiveness and fun.
The story is accompanied by lively, catchy melodies that are still celebrated today for their charm and wit. “Die Fledermaus” is a prime example of Strauss’s talent for combining the lightness of the Viennese waltz with the comedic plot of an operetta and it remains a staple of the operetta repertoire worldwide.
Das Spitzentuch der Königin (1880)
The operetta “The Queen’s Lace Handkerchief” premiered in Vienna in 1880. It tells the story of the Spanish King Ferdinand, who must hide his love for the governor’s daughter Irene, from the queen. A lace handkerchief, which Irene receives as a gift from the king, sets off a series of complications and jealousies at the Spanish court. The operetta is a lively work full of intrigue, comic misunderstandings and romantic entanglements, showcasing Johann Strauss’s talent for entertaining and spirited melodies.
Eine Nacht in Venedig Ouvertüre (1883)
The operetta “A Night in Venice” premiered in Berlin in 1883. The plot is set in romantic Venice and revolves around mix-ups and amorous adventures during the Venetian Carnival.
“A Night in Venice” takes place during the Carnival in Venice and follows the Duke of Urbino, who tries to seduce the beautiful senator’s wife Barbara. However, through a series of misunderstandings and masquerades, his own chambermaid, Annina, takes her place. Meanwhile, the senator and the fisherman Caramello, who is Annina’s lover, try to foil the duke’s plan. In the end, all misunderstandings are resolved and the couples are reunited as the Carnival celebrations continue.
Although the premiere did not achieve the expected success, the work became popular after revisions in Vienna and is now considered a classic of the Viennese operetta. The music captivates with its lightness and Italian-inspired charm, bringing the atmosphere of Venice to life. Melodies like “Komm in die Gondel” remain popular to this day and are a staple of the operetta repertoire.
Der Zigeunerbaron Ouvertüre (1885)
“The Gypsy Baron” is another well-known operetta by Johann Strauss, which also premiered at the Theater an der Wien in 1885. In contrast to “Die Fledermaus”, “The Gypsy Baron” features a more dramatic plot, blending romantic and adventurous elements.
“The Gypsy Baron” tells the story of the exiled Barinkay, who returns to Hungary to claim his inheritance. There, he falls in love with Saffi, the daughter of the gypsy queen Czipra. Together, they discover a treasure that once belonged to Barinkay’s family. However, before they can enjoy their fortune, they must overcome intrigues, societal prejudices, and military conflicts.
The music is characterized by Hungarian and “oriental” influences, giving the work a unique charm. The waltz “So Miserable and Faithful” and the famous “Oath of Fidelity” are among the musical highlights. “The Gypsy Baron” remains highly popular today due to its vibrant and colorful music as well as its captivating storyline.
Wiener Blut (1899)
“Viennese Blood” is another famous work by Johann Strauss, although it was not premiered until after his death in 1899. The operetta, with music compiled from various pieces by Strauss, had its debut at the Carltheater in Vienna. The title waltz, Wiener Blut, is particularly well-known and is often performed independently of the operetta.
The story of “Viennese Blood” revolves around the diplomat Count Zedlau, who struggles to maintain relationships with both his wife Gabriele and his lover Franziska, while also flirting with the dancer Pepi. Confusions and misunderstandings arise when all the characters come together at a grand Viennese celebration. In the end, the chaotic events are resolved and Count Zedlau realizes that he truly loves only his wife Gabriele.
The operetta celebrates the joy and charm of Vienna, ending with a reconciliatory and cheerful conclusion. It reflects the atmosphere of the imperial city and embodies the elegance and exuberance of Vienna in the 19th century. Even today, “Viennese Blood” remains a staple in many concert programs and is a popular piece at balls.
Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka (1858)
The “Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka” is one of Strauss’s most famous polkas and premiered in Vienna in 1858. The title refers to the popular Viennese gossip, and the lively, spirited music perfectly captures this playful atmosphere. The polka quickly became a favorite with audiences and remains a popular concert piece to this day, as it radiates energy and cheerfulness. The “Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka” showcases Strauss’s humorous side and his ability to musically portray everyday themes in an entertaining way.
Vaterländischer Marsch(1861)
The “Patriotic March”, composed in 1861, is a patriotic polka that Johann Strauss wrote in honor of the Austrian nation. The march premiered in Vienna and was warmly received as an expression of Austrian national sentiment. It combines festive march melodies with the lightness of a polka and was intended to uplift and strengthen national unity. The piece demonstrates the versatility of Strauss’s compositional style, vividly blending patriotic and folk elements.
Unter Donner und Blitz (1868)
“Under Thunder and Lightning” is a fast-paced polka composed and premiered in 1868. The title refers to a thunderstorm which is vividly brought to life through the energetic and dynamic music. The rapid rhythms and powerful orchestral passages make this piece an extraordinary experience, musically capturing the thunderous nature of the storm. “Under Thunder and Lightning” is a prime example of Strauss’s talent for creating lively and exhilarating dance music. It remains one of the most popular polkas in his repertoire to this day.
Eljen a Magyar (1869)
The polka “Eljen a Magyar” (“Long Live the Hungarian”) was composed in 1869 as a tribute to Hungary and its culture. It was created during Strauss’s successful stay in Budapest (at that time still the separate city Pest), where he developed great admiration for Hungarian hospitality and zest for life. The festive and spirited polka was enthusiastically received at its premiere and symbolizes the friendship between Vienna and Budapest. With its fast rhythms and folkloric melodies, the piece conveys a Hungarian celebration atmosphere and is one of Strauss’s most popular polkas.
Pizzicato-Polka (1869)
The “Pizzicato Polka” is a collaborative work by Johann Strauss II and his brother Josef Strauss, composed in 1869. It was originally written for a concert in Russia and stands out due to its unique use of the pizzicato technique, where the string players pluck the strings instead of using the bow. This light, delicate polka is characterized by its cheerful and playful nature and remains a popular piece to this day. It is often performed in concerts as a humorous and original addition to the program.
These works demonstrate why Johann Strauss II has become famous as the “Waltz King”. To this day, they are not only a symbol of the elegance and splendor of old Vienna but also a testament to Strauss’ ability to create catchy yet sophisticated music that has endured through generations.
On the occasion of his 200th birthday, you can experience the immortality of the Waltz King for yourself by visiting the multimedia exhibition at the Johann Strauss Museum!