The captivating waltzes of Johann Strauss and the Strauss family have had an enduring appeal to audiences throughout the world for more than 150 years.
Australian audiences will soon experience the authentic Viennese interpretation of this magnificent music when the internationally renowned Johann Strauss Ensemble makes its first major tour to our shores.
Led by the charismatic violinist Russell McGregor, the 22 musicians of this acclaimed orchestra will perform many of the best loved Strauss waltzes and polkas including the Beautiful Blue Danube, Wiener Blut, and the Thunder and Lightning polka, so familiar to millions of television viewers of the traditional New Year’s Day concert in Vienna’s Musikverein.
The program will also feature the works of Johann Strauss senior and his other sons Josef and Eduard, as well as popular works composed by their contemporaries.
The Johann Strauss Ensemble was founded in 1985 by musicians of the famous Bruckner Orchestra, based in Linz. Many of the founding members will tour to Australia.
Russell McGregor is a remarkable Australian success story.
The brilliant violinist left Melbourne twenty years ago, with the aim of pursuing a career in Vienna, one of the world’s great music capitals.
Since then he has established himself as the city’s most famous “stehgeiger” (conductor/soloist in the manner of Johann Strauss himself). This modern day Waltz King communicates his passion for this music to audiences of all ages and also engages them with fascinating anecdotes about the Strauss family and their music, making these concerts a unique and truly memorable experience.
Read more: Famous Johann Strauss Ensemble
