Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical music with "The Essential Johann Strauss II," a meticulously curated collection of timeless compositions by the renowned Austrian composer. Released on October 14, 2025, under the prestigious Naxos Special Projects label, this album spans a generous 2 hours and 37 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through the opulent and vivacious sounds of the Romantic era.
Johann Strauss II, often hailed as the "Waltz King," is celebrated for his infectious melodies and innovative orchestrations. This album showcases his unparalleled talent with a diverse selection of waltzes, polkas, marches, and overtures, each piece a testament to his enduring legacy. From the iconic "An der schönen, blauen Donau" (The Beautiful Blue Danube) to the lively "Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka," the tracks encapsulate the essence of Viennese charm and elegance.
The album features a rich tapestry of compositions, including the overture from "Die Fledermaus" (The Bat), the playful "Pizzicato-Polka," and the grand "Kaiser-Walzer" (Emperor Waltz). Each piece is performed with precision and passion, bringing Strauss's vision to life with vibrant energy and technical brilliance.
Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "The Essential Johann Strauss II" promises an unforgettable listening experience. Dive into the opulent world of Strauss's music and discover the timeless allure of his compositions, each note a celebration of joy, romance, and the enduring spirit of Viennese culture.
2025 Naxos Records2025 Naxos Records
Tracks
Klipp-Klapp, Galopp, Op. 466Johann Strauss II, Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Alfred Walter
Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka, Op. 214Johann Strauss II, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
Die Fledermaus (The Bat), Act I: OvertureJohann Strauss II, Košice Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Alfred Walter
Pizzicato-PolkaJohann Strauss II, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
An der schönen, blauen Donau (The Beautiful Blue Danube), Op. 314Johann Strauss II, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
Unter Donner und Blitz, Op. 324Johann Strauss II, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
Komm in die GondelJohann Strauss II, János Berkes, Magyar Állami Operaház Zenekara, Laszlo Kovacs
Schatzwalzer, Op. 418Johann Strauss II, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
Frühlingsstimmen, Waltzer, Op. 410Johann Strauss II, Strauss Festival Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
Tik-Tak Polka, Op. 365Johann Strauss II, Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Johannes Wildner
OvertureJohann Strauss II, Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Alfred Walter
Kaiser-Walzer, Op. 437Johann Strauss II, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
Champagner-Polka, Op. 211Johann Strauss II, Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Alfred Walter
Tales from the Vienna Woods, Op. 325Johann Strauss II, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
Couplet. Spiel' ich die Unschuld vom Lande (Adele, Ida, Frank)Johann Strauss II, Friedrich Haider, Chen Reiss, Sabine Kallhammer, Sebastian Holecek, WDR Rundfunkorchester Köln
Freikugeln, Polka schnell, Op. 326Johann Strauss II, Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Johannes Wildner
Wein, Weib und Gesang! (Wine, Woman and Song!), Op. 333Johann Strauss II, Strauss Festival Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
Indigo-Marsch, Op. 349Johann Strauss II, Polish State Philharmonic Orchestra, Katowice, Johannes Wildner
Frutti di mare!Johann Strauss II, Annika Gerhards, Mörbisch Festival Choir, Morbisch Festival Orchestra, Andreas Schuller
Leichtes Blut, Polka schnell, Op. 319Johann Strauss II, Polish State Philharmonic Orchestra, Katowice, Oliver von Dohnanyi
Wiener Blut, Op. 354Johann Strauss II, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
Myrthenbluthen (Waltz), Op. 395Johann Strauss II, Polish State Philharmonic Orchestra, Katowice, Johannes Wildner
Perpetuum mobile, Op. 257, "Musikalischer Scherz" (Musical Joke)Johann Strauss II, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ondrej Lenard
Bitte schön, Op. 372Johann Strauss II, Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Alfred Walter
Welch' buntes Leben wird (Live)Johann Strauss II, Robert Davidson, Kirsten C. Kunkle, Sofia Philharmonic Chorus, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra, Dario Salvi
Lagunen-Walzer, Op. 411Johann Strauss II, Polish State Philharmonic Orchestra, Katowice, Oliver von Dohnanyi
Fledermaus-Quadrille, Op. 363Johann Strauss II, Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Alfred Walter
Neue Pizzicato-Polka, Op. 449Johann Strauss II, Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Alfred Walter
Wer uns getraut?Johann Strauss II, Ingrid Kertesi, János Berkes, Hungarian Operetta Orchestra, Laszlo Kovacs
Bei uns z'Haus, Op. 361Johann Strauss II, Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Alfred Walter