The Viennese Dance Series for Chamber Ensembles
Johann Strauss Jr.
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For Soundbite
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Geschichten aus dem Wienerwald
(Tales from the Vienna Woods)
Waltzes For String Quartet, Op.325
Composed in 1868, Geschichten aus dem Wienerwald, Op. 325 recalls the folk music of the villages in the Vienna Woods, a beloved recreational area of the Viennese, just outside of the City. Of particular interest is the waltz's introduction, which is one of the longest he ever wrote for a waltz. It is followed by five lovely waltzes which conjure up scenes of bucolic recreation. These are a substantial set of waltzes, lasting nearly a quarter of an hour. Our soundbite presents the introduction and two of the better known waltzes.
It is true that this is one piece which Strauss did intend for orchestra, however, it even though it was played by the Vienna Philharmonic, it was in a scaled back version of around 30 players which why is arrangements of this work for much smaller and more intimate groups have been so successful.
It quickly became one of Strauss’ most famous compositions, especially in the English speaking world where it has become better known as Tales from the Vienna Woods.
Parts: $16.95
