[Classics] Famous waltzes: recommended popular pieces

The Blue DanubeJohann Strauss II

Waltz “The Blue Danube” Vienna Philharmonic New Year’s Concert 2014

The Blue Danube, a staple encore at the Vienna Philharmonic’s New Year’s Concert, is regarded as a signature work of Johann Strauss II, known as the “Waltz King.” Strauss composed it in 1867 at the request of the Vienna Men’s Choral Association to lift the spirits of his homeland after its defeat in the war with Prussia.

Depicting the beauty of the Danube Canal, the piece is so beloved by the public that it is often called Austria’s second national anthem.

It is a gentle and radiant work, evoking the image of clear blue waters flowing slowly through the city of Vienna under the sunlight.

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Joy of LoveFritz Kreisler

Maxim Vengerov – Liebesfreud – Kreisler

“Liebesfreud” (Joy of Love), composed by the celebrated Austrian violinist Fritz Kreisler, is a waltz masterpiece brimming with happiness, just as its title suggests.

Known as the first piece in the collection “Old Viennese Dances,” published around 1905, it is said to have been written during the joyful period right after his marriage to his wife, Harriet.

Its bright and sparkling melody lifts the heart just by listening.

The solo piano arrangement by the Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff is also famous and has long been loved in Japan.

It’s a perfect piece not only for those who want to enjoy the interplay between violin and piano, but also as an elegant companion to afternoon tea.

Roses of the TropicsJohann Strauss II

Strauss “Roses from the South” | Waltzes and Polkas | Full Orchestra Performance [Conducted by Hiroshi Yoshida] Bologna Opera House Philharmonic

A masterpiece by Johann Strauss II, known as the “Waltz King,” where elegance and pathos coexist.

Reworked from songs in his own operetta The Queen’s Lace Handkerchief, it is a concert waltz first performed in November 1880.

The “southern” in the title symbolizes Italy, with which Austria enjoyed friendly relations at the time, and it is famously said to have been dedicated to King Umberto I of Italy.

From the melancholic timbre of the introduction, the piece gradually gathers heat and unfolds toward a dazzling climax—truly breathtaking.

Give it a listen when you want to forget the everyday and bask in elegance, or when you wish to create an atmosphere of refined grace.

Merry-Go-Round of LifeHisaishi Joe

Joe Hisaishi – Merry-Go-Round of Life (from “Howl’s Moving Castle”)

The main theme of Studio Ghibli’s film Howl’s Moving Castle, “Merry-Go-Round of Life.” The wistful waltz composed by Joe Hisaishi beautifully captures the film’s worldview.

The hidden sadness within its splendor evokes the image of Sophie, the protagonist, who, even after being transformed by magic, confronts her inner self and lives with strength.

In fact, there’s an anecdote that in February 2004, Hisaishi performed the piece on the piano in front of director Hayao Miyazaki, and it was approved on the spot.

Its emotionally stirring, dramatic progression is the perfect companion for quiet nights when you want to be alone with your thoughts.

In the style of Chabrier, M. 63Maurice Ravel

In the style of Chabrier, M. 63

This work, by French musical master Maurice Ravel, was written as a homage to a senior composer he deeply admired.

While imitating Chabrier’s characteristic humor and bold harmonies, it remains a refined and sonorous miniature.

Borrowing a melody from Gounod’s opera Faust and casting it in the style of a waltz, it exudes a chic esprit.

Though it lasts only about two minutes, it distills the essence of French music with remarkable density.

It’s the perfect piece for when you want to savor the atmosphere of an elegant salon or to gently change the mood on a quiet afternoon.