Johann Strauss Orchestra - The Vienna I Love, Waltzes From My Heart

If Rieu is not the most outstanding purveyor of Viennese waltzes and similar light-hearted fare, he is certainly the most popular and well-known. There are plenty of fun pieces on this album, although, to be just a tad pedantic, more of it is Italian and French than remotely Viennese. But it's all fun, and it's all well-played. --Sarah Bryan Miller Amazon.com

Lots of Fun!

I was going to review this on New Year's Eve, since it has the right kind of brio for the occasion. But sloth overcame me. Now, I need a shot of brio, so here we go.

The CD begins with a potpourri, including The Radetzky March (by Strauss pere), William Tell Overture, Light Cavalry Overture, and other chestnuts that still excite). The pace is up tempo. In short, a lot of fun. If you want cerebral works and conducting, this isn't it. If you just want to enjoy, good stuff!

Another cut is "The Skaters," by Waldteufel. Animated and enjoyable. This is, to be honest, a trifle, but a very pleasant trifle. The Johann Strauss Orchestra, led by Andre Rieu, provides an enjoyable version.

Offenbach's "Barcarole" is another musical bon bon. Rieu and the Orchestra produce another listenable version. The tempo of the work is nice, although, to my ears, a bit slow; the rhythm is captivating.

Then there is Strauss fils' "Emperor Waltz," one of his best compositions in this genre. The stately introductory segment sets the stage nicely and is played well by the Strauss Orchestra. Then, into the heart of the waltz itself. One of Johann Strauss Junior's best! This is a toe tapper.

And so on. Not a heavy duty classical album, but one that is an enjoyable change of pace. Great for the New Year's celebration. . . .
February 22, 2008

the vienna I love. the homecoming. at the movies

Every CD and DVD I have had of Andreau Rieu have all been excellent. You can waltz around the house doing the housework! November 16, 2007

Music different from title

The title of this CD was misleading. I wanted an entire CD of Viennese waltzes to play at a party, and was disappointed that there were marches, etc. on the CD. A better title would've been "The Vienna I Love, Music From My Heart". May 26, 2007

André Rieu - The Vienna I love - Waltzes From My Heart

The music is so upbeat and you are automatically in a good mood. It is a real pleasure listening to this CD and it is done frequently. July 17, 2006

Excellent choice

I am really a rock music fan but I enjoy this version of light classical music. It may not be for the serious classical music enthusiast, but it is still considered excellent light entertainment. What a way to introduce classical music to a wider audience! May 3, 2006

More reviews at Amazon.com ...