Johann Strauss Sr., whose name we remember as the author of the Radetzki March, warned his many children, at an early age, that dedication to music was a very risky and unstable activity, despite the fact that Strauss Sr. was quite a celebrity in Vienna, a position he had achieved thanks to the intense work done with the orchestra that he himself had formed.
But the older son ignored the father's warning. Johann Strauss junior (1825 - 1899), was barely a teenager when he was already a capable violinist, showing, in addition, great ability to conduct orchestras. So much so, that at age 19 he had his own, rivalling his father's orchestra to win the Viennese public´s favour. He had also begun to compose, although in his first performances much of his repertoire was due to his father.
The new orchestra
After the latter died in 1849, Johann did not delay in uniting the two rival orchestras and with the new group he soon became an undisputed champion in the Viennese dance halls, which he will repeat later in the other European capitals. As he also added to his musical talent great business skills and an impressive facility for networking at the highest levels, his fame wasted no time in reaching Russia.
The ultimate success
In 1856 he was asked to offer a series of concerts in Saint Petersburg, invited by a group of businessmen from the nascent Russian bourgeoisie, interested in participating in the festivities that the aristocracy enjoyed. The tour was a success and very well paid. The lucrative contact lasted about ten years, during which period Johann Strauss Jr. amassed a considerable fortune.
"Tritsch Tratsch" polka
It was composed shortly after returning from Russia. Much celebrated in its time, even today it is a fixed number every year at the New Year's concert in Vienna. The origin of its strange name still divides scholars.
The first video shows the Vienna Philharmonic conducted by Zubin Mehta, in an open-air performance at Heldenplatz. Very happy, and very agile, the piece lasts just under three minutes.
There is also a sung version. Following, the Vienna Boys' Choir on the occasion of the 2012 New Year's Concert.
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