Johann Strauss II - Kaiser-Walzer (Emperor Waltz), Op. 437

Strauss often played in the glittering Imperial balls, conducting the orchestra and playing the first violin at the same time.   The majestic launch of this fascinating waltz presents the backdrop of the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the hegemony of the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph in 1888. Johann Strauss II was Music Director of the Dance Hesperides of the Imperial Court from 1863 to 1872 and composed on occasion for the celebration of an imperial anniversary. The ingenuity of the melody of the Emperor Waltz, which was originally orchestrated for a full orchestra, is such that it was easily adapted for the four or five instruments of a chamber ensemble by the Austrian composer Arnold Schoenberg in 1925. This waltz is a tender and somewhat melancholic work, which at times turns its gaze nostalgically to the old Vienna. The waltz praises the majesty and dignity of the old monarch, who was fully devoted to his people. It begins with a majestic, magnificent march, which soon re
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Vivaldi - Symphony in C Major

"Sinfonia" in the Baroque period was called a musical work, which was played as an introduction to a suite or an opera, a precursor to overture. The term ususally described a kind of introduction to an opera or ballet, which in the 18th century developed into the orchestral symphony.

 Vivaldi uses this name to describe a composition for a string orchestra in three loosely connected sections.

I. Allegro molto

The first part, Allegro molto, is based on a resounding part beginning with dramatic fiddles. Perhaps his was a deliberate play by the composer to surprise his audience at the start of the concert in order to keep quiet.

II. Larghetto

The part ends calmly, leading to a Larghetto, a tender melody played by violins.

III. Allegro

The sturdy final Allegro is reminiscent of some works by Handel, Vivaldi's contemporary composer.



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