Like It Or Not

Even those most resistant to dancing will find it impossible not to tap a finger or a foot when listening to these delectable waltzes and polkas. Johann Strauss's waltzes in particular may catch such a recalcitrant listener off guard, because of both their familiarity--as in 'An der sch nen, blauen Donau'--and their posture as program music--as in the stately 'Wein, Weib und Gesang,' which was originally conceived as a work for chorus and orchestra.
Whether unraveling Johann's extended dance-tableaux or frolicking along in one of Eduard Strauss's short and charming polkas, Riccardo Muti elicits from the Weiner Philharmoniker playing distinguished by its finesse and effervescence. The happy discovery on this recording will most likely be the three waltzes by the other Strauss brother, Josef, whom many consider to be the most gifted member of the Strauss family. His finely wrought 'Marien-Kl nge' bubbles with effortless sophistication.
REVIEWS:
International Record Review (3/00, p.65) - "...expertly conducted, superbly performed, smoothly recorded and with a most enthusiastic audience adding an appropriate degree of excitement and uniqueness to the event..."