In 2025, Vienna celebrates the bicentenary of the birth of Johann Strauss II, an emblematic figure and composer of classical music. His most famous work, "The Blue Danube" ("An der schönen, blauen Donau" in German), composed in 1866, is Austria's unofficial anthem and still resonates today.
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00:00You could say about Johann Strauss that he is the first pop star in the modern world.
00:31I would say that he is the most famous waltzer in the world.
00:35And he plays a very important role in Vienna.
00:39I am from Vienna and for me he is really rooted in my heart, I have to say.
00:46When you celebrate New Year's Eve in Vienna, the new year always starts with the boomerang.
00:52That's the big bell from St. Stephen's Cathedral.
00:55And then all the radio stations play the Danube Waltz.
00:58And you dance to the New Year.
01:01And that's always a very special moment for me.
01:05How was such an evening?
01:10Playing on this piano.
01:13That was our piano.
01:15It was broken and it was restored.
01:22For me it comes from the music.
01:24Because he created a music that touches everyone.
01:30That everyone understands.
01:33No matter what culture you come from, you understand this music.
01:37That means you understand.
01:39It goes to your heart.
01:41You know you feel good.
01:43You feel good.
01:45And I think no one has ever cried at Strauss' music.
01:54New Year's Eve in Vienna