Romantic Period - post 1848

For Johann Strauß (1825 - Vienna - 1899) styling (Illustration: the middle-aged Strauß) and image were as important as they are for stars today. His unchanging appearance became a trademark of a culture of discerning entertainment. The society of the 19th c handled crisis situations better if there was also relief in the form of dance, opera and operetta occasionaly with extravagant music and scenery. This waltz from the overture to Fledermaus in particular (1874) demonstrates Strauß' technic of adding ever new themes to his delicate, melodious phrases along with transparent harmonies that also include nuances such as sections in minor keys. Nobody wanted to miss the feeling of apparently never-ending movement in a lighthearted mood.(M. Saary)