Composer Of The Week: Johann Strauss I and II

The Story Of The Waltz Kings. Today Donald Macleod charts the rise of Johann Strauss I and the emergence of the waltz, from a rustic village dance into an elegant art-form sweeping Europe.

From its origins in the simple country dancing which came down river from the Black Forest, the waltz grew to become the signature tune of Viennese high society, and the Strauss family its most exuberant exponents. Johann Strauss the elder soon came to dominate the scene with his own high-octane orchestra and his ever-more sophisticated compositions.

The highest levels of European society - including Queen Victoria - tripped the light fantastic to the music of the man who became known as the Waltz King.

Tuesday: Today Donald examines the turbulent relationship of Strauss father and son, their musical rivalry, and their involvement in the revolutions of 1848.

Wednesday: Today Donald enjoys the highly productive decade in which Strauss II’s waltzes transcended their original function to become grand concert works.

Thursday: Today Donald explores Johann II’s move away from the dance hall to write a stream of operettas, most of which are now forgotten.

Friday: Today Strauss II, Austrian national hero with the adulation of Europe, becomes a German. Unknown to him, the Nazis would later 'alter' his ancestry.

Presenter/Donald Macleod, Producer/Dominic Jewel for the BBC

Publicity contact: MC4