The waltzes of Johann Strauss speak to all ages and all peoples – their popularity is limitless. Symphony orchestras, concert pianists, dance bands, gypsy orchestras, lonely virtuosos of the marimba or accordion – everybody plays them, and the waltzes go on with undimmed vitality, for their appeal can withstand the tampering of even the most insensitive “arrangers.” Everybody plays the Strauss Waltzes, but nobody plays them with the spirit, affection and conviction of the Austrian musicians to whom this music is second nature. To them the Tales From The Vienna Woods or the Blue Danube are synonymous with the earliest memories of childhood and the constant stimulations of a lifetime. The Mozarteum Orchestra of Salzburg – which here performs four celebrated waltzes of Johann Strauss in their full concert form – is composed entirely of such musicians. One of the oldest and most distinguished musical organizations of Europe, the Mozarteum was founded in 1841 in honor of Mozart, Salzburg’s native son. Mozart’s two sons conducted the Orchestra at its opening concert. In modern times the Mozarteum Orchestra has achieved international fame through its association with the celebrated annual Salzburg Festivals. During their numerous concert tours the Orchestra has visited London, Paris, Milan and other European centers, and covered the major cities of the United States and Canada during a world-wide tour in 1956. At home or abroad, under the enthusiastic sponsorship of the Salzburg city and county government, the Mozarteum Orchestra performs with dedication and authentic spirit, the masterpieces of Austria’s immortal composers, Mozart, Schubert – and Johann Strauss.