Johann Strauss Jr.: The Waltz King
Austrian composer known as 'The Waltz King', celebrated for revolutionizing Viennese light music through his waltzes, polkas, and operettas.
Son of composer Johann Strauss I, he secretly studied music against his father's wishes. Founded his own orchestra at 19, rivaling his father. After his father's death, he combined orchestras and dominated Viennese dance music. Composed over 500 works, including iconic waltzes like 'The Blue Danube' and operettas like 'Die Fledermaus'.
- His father forbade music lessons, forcing Johann Jr. to study violin secretly with Franz Amon while training as a bank clerk.
- He engaged in a bitter professional rivalry with his father after founding his orchestra in 1844, dividing Vienna's loyalties between 'Strauss I' and 'Strauss II' supporters.
- Survived the 1848 Revolution by switching political allegiances, composing marches for both sides, damaging his reputation temporarily.
- Married three times: first wife Jetty Treffeiz (singer) helped his career but died suddenly; second wife Ernestine Henriette caused scandal by faking pregnancy to force marriage; third wife Adele Deutsch inspired late masterpieces.
- Conducted a 1,000-musician orchestra at 1872 Boston Peace Jubilee, the largest ensemble ever assembled at the time.
- Died of pneumonia at 73 after catching cold while composing his ballet 'Aschenbrödel'.
