The Era of the Waltz King
The Era of the Waltz King
It was none other than the soulful, haunting melodies derived from the aura of the
most beautiful, romantic city in the world that inspired me to research into the history of
one of the most loved composers of all time. The king of Waltz is none other than Johann
Strauss Jr., who captivated and swept audiences of all ages into the irrestible passion for
dance. I have always been enchanted by the mesmerizing piece of music known as the
"Blue Danube" and have decided to broaden my knowledge on one of my favourite
composers of which who has composed approximately 550 fabulous pieces,
(Stevens,2004)
Johann Strauss was born on October 25, 1825 to Johann Strauss Sr. and Anna
Streim, (Hood,1996). He was one of the six children and the middle child born to the
couple. Johann Strauss Jr. was named in honour of his prestigious father (Hood,1996).
Johann's father was a severe drunkard who loathed his son's passion and skill for music.
His mother, Anna, a gifted guitarist in her husband's orchestra, secretly arranged for
Johann to learn from one of his father's orchestra conductors, Franz Ammon. Ammon
soon realized that despite his tedious efforts, the young Strauss's musical ability
surpassed his own. He recommended that Strauss Jr. learn from another talented
musician, (Fantel,pg ,Ebsco database ). His father meanwhile, on his rare visits was
agitated to discover that each time he arrived, Johann Strauss Jr. was getting better and
composing his own music. It must have startled his very jealous father to discover that
Johann Strauss Jr. had actually composed his first waltz at the mere age of six,( Ebsco
database).His father took it into his head to try to beat the music out of Johann by
whipping him brutally and forbidding Johann...
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