Hey Kids, Meet Johann Strauss II | Composer Biography

from the Hey Kid's Meet the Composer Index

Johann Strauss II was born in Vienna, Austria, on October 25, 1825. He was the oldest son of Johann Strauss I, who was a self-taught musician and composer. From an early age, young Johann showed a remarkable talent for music and quickly became proficient in playing several instruments, including the violin and the piano. Despite his father's initial reluctance to have him pursue a musical career, Johann Strauss II's passion for music prevailed.

Throughout his life, Johann Strauss II composed numerous waltzes, polkas, and operettas that captivated audiences and solidified his reputation as a master of light and elegant music. Eventually he became known as the "Waltz King." One of his most famous works, "The Blue Danube," became an unofficial anthem of Austria and remains an iconic piece of classical music to this day.

Johann Strauss II died on June 3, 1899, marking the end of an era in Viennese music. He left a profound impact on the world of classical music with many of his compositions still being perfomed today.

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Watch a performance of Johann Strauss II's Blue Danube Waltz.

Print Related Resources for Johann Strauss II

Beginner and Easy Piano Sheet Music

Learn to play the most popular works of Johann Strauss II.

Johann Strauss II Meet the Composer Series Piano Book, Vol. 5
The Blue Danube (Strauss II) | Easy Piano Play and Learn™ Edition
The Blue Danube (Strauss II) | Easy/Level 4 Piano Sheet Music
Pizzicato Polka | Easy/Level 3 Piano Sheet Music
Laughing Song from Die Fledermaus | Easy/Level 3 Piano Sheet Music
Viennese Waltz | Easy/Level 5 Piano Sheet Music
Tales from the Vienna Woods | Easy/Level 5 Piano Sheet Music

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Johann Strauss II | Free Word Search Worksheet
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