Program

Schubert composed this overture for his “Magic Harp” opera. However, just as he finished his “ Rosamonde” opera, the former was mistakenly published under the title of the “ Rosamonde  Ouverture”. This did not prevent it from becoming a masterpiece in its own right, for the themes encapsulate perfectly the atmosphere of the opera’s plot.

The Minuet was originally a noble and gracious dance conducted in triple time that was generally inserted into a suite of dances. In the 18^th Century, it lost its noble connotations and became more upbeat and less rhythmically constrained. This is most certainly the style of Minuet that Mozart subscribed to.

Written in Vienna in 1905 “The Merry Widow” immediately met with great Europe-wide success. Through the twists and turns of the plot and the forced cheer of the characters, Franz Lehar criticises the exuberant excesses of the Bourgeoisie of the time.

Just as Puccini and other composers were, Franz Lehar was also influenced by the wave of exoticism from the Far East which reigned in the 1920s. This can be felt in the tender, refined feelings which emerge in the music of “Land of Smiles”.

The “Light Cavalry” overture by Franz von Suppé is a popular piece of music which is lively and cheerful, just like all other works by this 19^th Century Austrian composer.

 Nico Dostal is the most contemporary composer of the traditional Viennese Operetta. During the Nazi regime, he bravely continued undeterred to pursue his career as conductor and composer. 

Joseph Schrammel composed numerous dances and songs in traditional folk music style. Together with his brother Johann, he formed original musical ensembles comprised of unique instrumental combinations, which used to perform in village fêtes.

Father and son Johann Strauss are undoubtedly the kings of Viennese dance music. Be it the “Blue Danube Waltz”, the “Bauern Polka” or the “Radetsky” march, they never fail to set a foot tapping in the world of Western music.