Johann Strauss I – Kettenbrücke Walzer, Op. 4

Johann Strauss Sr. (1804-1849) was an Austrian composer famous for his contribution to the development of Viennese waltz music. Born in Vienna, he initially worked as a bookbinder before his musical talents led him to pursue a career in music. Strauss formed his own orchestra in 1825 and quickly gained popularity with his lively and innovative waltzes, polkas, and marches. His most famous work, the “Radetzky March,” composed in 1848, remains a staple in classical music and is traditionally performed at the Vienna New Year’s Concert. As a pivotal figure in Viennese musical culture, Strauss played a significant role in popularizing the waltz across Europe. His success and style greatly influenced his sons, particularly Johann Strauss II, who followed in his footsteps and became known as the “Waltz King.”