Alfred Eschwé, conductor | Conductor
Viennese Johann Strauss Orchestra
Recorded live on October 26, 2016 in the Golden Hall of the Wiener Musikverein.
Synopsis:
In the fall of 1889, Johann Strauss (Sohn) was invited to conduct a number of his own compositions at several festivals on the occasion of the opening of the new Berlin establishment "Königsbau" in the former "Poduktenbörse".
He was granted generous terms and provided him with an orchestra of 100 men.
It tempted the Waltz King to perform once again in the metropolis on the Spree and, moreover, in such a noble setting. Strauss (Sohn) therefore wrote a new composition for these concerts, for which he chose the title "Hand in Hand". This should probably point to the good relations between Vienna and Berlin. Corresponding to the festive occasion, Johann Strauss (Sohn) wrote a large-scale waltz with an introduction, the beginning of which was perceived as "Prussian." All the more Viennese was the following waltz. Before the work was played for the first time, an important political event took place in Berlin:
Emperor Franz Joseph paid a visit to Kaiser Wilhelm II. On this occasion, the alliance between Austria-Hungary and the German Reich was solemnly summoned.
Probably this imperial meeting in Berlin offered the suggestion to give the new waltz by Johann Strauss (son) the title "Kaiser-Walzer".
The premiere of the work took place under the direction of the composer on October 21, 1889 in Berlin's "Königsbau". The Vienna premiere followed on 24th November in the Golden Hall of the Musikverein. Johann Strauss (Sohn) performed his masterpiece even in the hometown itself to the audience.
In both cases, there was a complete success. The special rank of the festive composition was immediately recognized, and at the same time it remained in the future.
Text: Prof. Franz Maile
