Tales from the Vienna Woods, op. 325

Johann Strauß Sohn revolutionized the Viennese waltz in the 19th century and made it popular all over the world. His works, such as the famous waltzes “The Beautiful Blue Danube” op. 314 and “Tales from the Vienna Woods” op. 325, are characterized by captivating melodies, lively rhythms and a brilliant orchestration. Strauß composed most of his instrumental works for his Strauß Orchestra, which he conducted himself. Since only a small number of manuscripts have survived, the first editions are the most important sources. In the preface to the Johann Strauß Complete Edition, special attention is given to the question of the smaller instrumentation of the Strauß Orchestra. The unison parts were by no means always to be played “a due”, as was the case in earlier scores; rather, the size of the ensemble depended on the occasion, be it a concert performance in a closed room or outdoors, in a private circle or as dance music in a bustling ballroom. As the k. k. Hofballmusikdirektor (Music Director of the Royal Court Balls), the “Waltz King” was responsible for all court balls until 1871, and he composed exclusively dance music. The operetta waltzes (e. g. in “Die Fledermaus” and “Eine Nacht in Venedig” op. 411) are as popular as the “Emperor Waltz” op. 437, which is regularly played at the Vienna Philharmonic’s New Year’s Concert. Strauss’ waltzes have become a hallmark of Viennese culture and are still an integral part of classical concerts and balls. It was with good reason that Mariss Janson once declared the “The Beautiful Blue Danube” Waltz to be the secret national anthem of Austria.