Drawing inspiration from the European classical composers of yore, Andre Rieu has revitalized the stately dance while making it more accessible to fans of all ages. His concerts cultivate a festive atmsosphere that encourages fans to enjoy the music by getting out of their seats and literally waltz up and down the aisles.
Some music aficionados have dubbed Rieu the "Everyman’s King of Waltz" for his live concerts that are often shown on public television, and attract a remarkably wide variety of fans - ranging in age from 5 to 95 years old and decked out in everything from formal black tie attire to t-shirts and tennis shoes.
Rieu’s incredible first album, Strauss & Co, was released in 1994 and quickly soared up the Dutch and German music charts. In 1996, the Dutch violinist and conductor of the Johann Strauss Orchestra toured throughout Europe and released a new album, From Holland With Love. That record held the Number One spot on the Dutch charts for over a year and triggered a waltz craze in the land of wooden shoes. Later that year, Rieu took home the World Music Award in Monte Carlo.
More recently, Rieu was named the No. 2 Top Classical Artist by Billboard’s Best of 2006 and was awarded the Top Classical Album for Tuscany and Live in Dublin plus Top Classical Crossover Album for At The Movies. Rieu has toured the world over and has sold more than 22 million albums and CDs.
Drawing inspiration from the European classical composers of yore, Andre Rieu has revitalized the stately dance while making it more accessible to fans of all ages. His concerts cultivate a festive atmsosphere that encourages fans to enjoy the music by getting out of their seats and literally waltz up and down the aisles.
