Overview

THE FRIENDS OF MUSIC SOCIETY – EVENTS AT MEGARON, THE ATHENS CONCERT HALL

The Johann Strauss Ensemble of Vienna was founded in 1985 by outstanding musicians from Austria’s Bruckner Orchestra. It very quickly acquired an international reputation, with tours of the major cities of Europe. Since 2003 the orchestra has been directed by violinist Russell McGregor.

A characteristic feature of the Ensemble’s concerts is that the performances mirror the approach first adopted by the great composer and violinist Johann Strauss, who performed as soloist while conducting the orchestra, thrilling audiences with the dancing rhythms and melodies of his music.

For the Athens concerts the Ensemble has chosen the most ravishing waltzes, polkas and folk dances of Viennese musical tradition, written by the composers of the Strauss family as well as their contemporaries, to transport Athenian audiences to Vienna at Christmastime.