A Living Homage to a Timeless Tradition
Since 1977, the Strauss Capelle Vienna has performed over 3,000 concerts worldwide, enchanting audiences with the timeless music of Johann Strauss. As the authentic Strauss Orchestra, it carries forward the legacy of Johann Strauss Father, who founded the original Strauss Orchestra in 1827. With its historical costumes, authentic Viennese sound, and world-class musicians, the Strauss Capelle Vienna has appeared in many of the world’s most prestigious venues from the Vienna Musikverein and Konzerthaus to Suntory Hall in Tokyo, the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing, and the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens. Preserving Austria’s cultural heritage while captivating audiences across the globe, the Strauss Capelle Vienna remains the true Strauss Orchestra from Vienna.
The Original Legacy
The Strauss Capelle Vienna traces its roots to the orchestra founded in 1827 by Johann Strauss Father. In the 19th century, the Strauss dynasty — Johann I, Johann II, Josef, and Eduard — brought the waltz and polka to international fame, ushering in the golden age of Viennese dance music.
After Eduard Strauss disbanded the original Strauss Orchestra in 1901, the tradition remained silent until 1977, when leading musicians from the Vienna Philharmonic, the Vienna State Opera, and the Volksoper revived the Strauss Capelle Vienna. Since then, the ensemble has honored the Strauss family’s musical spirit, uniting historical authenticity with artistic excellence.
Symbols of Imperial Vienna
A distinctive hallmark of the Strauss Capelle Vienna is its historical uniform, originally commissioned by Emperor Franz Josef I. Designed in striking red and white, these costumes distinguished the Strauss Orchestra from all others at the imperial court, offering a vibrant alternative to conventional black concert attire.
Today, the Strauss Capelle Vienna continues to wear these uniforms in concert, bringing audiences not only the music but also the visual splendor of Vienna’s golden age. They remain a living symbol of the orchestra’s unique identity and its connection to Austria’s cultural history.
Passing the Baton Through Generations
Specializing in the works of the Strauss dynasty, the Strauss Capelle Vienna preserves a performance style passed down for nearly two centuries. Each waltz, polka, and march is performed with the elegance, precision, and vitality that once enchanted Vienna’s aristocracy.
The orchestra’s musicians, many drawn from the Vienna Philharmonic, the Vienna State Opera, and the Vienna Volksoper, bring world-class expertise to the ensemble. Together, they uphold and extend the legacy of Johann Strauss, Vienna’s most celebrated composer and the eternal “Waltz King.”
Engaging Today’s Audience
Deeply rooted in Viennese tradition, the Strauss Capelle Vienna also embraces modern artistry to connect with today’s audiences. Its performances merge historical authenticity with contemporary elements such as synchronized lighting, video projections, and engaging narrative introductions.
This innovative approach transforms concerts into immersive experiences — both a celebration of cultural heritage and a vibrant artistic spectacle. In addition to annual tours across Europe, Japan, South America, and China, the Strauss Capelle Vienna has appeared in major arenas such as Arena Zagreb and Arena Sofia, bringing Strauss’s timeless music to large-scale audiences and proving its relevance on some of the world’s most impressive stages.
Musical Ambassador of Austria
Recognized internationally as a “Musical Ambassador of Austria,” the Strauss Capelle Vienna represents Vienna’s cultural identity on the world stage. Its performances strengthen Austria’s image abroad, building bridges between cultures through the universal language of music.
By bringing Johann Strauss’s music to audiences across continents, the Strauss Capelle Vienna fulfills its mission as both guardian of a rich heritage and global symbol of Viennese elegance.
Chief conductor
Rainer Roos is an internationally acclaimed conductor and pianist, recognized as one of today’s foremost interpreters of Viennese music. He studied piano with Prof. Ong and conducting with Prof. Ungar at the Stuttgart Music University, making his operatic debut at the Stuttgart State Opera at the age of 20.
His career has since brought him to leading orchestras including the WDR Broadcasting Orchestra, the Luxembourg Philharmonic, the Paris Chamber Orchestra, and the North West German Philharmonic, with appearances at major opera houses and festivals throughout Europe.
In 2011, Rainer Roos was appointed Chief Conductor of the Strauss Capelle Vienna, leading the orchestra on international tours across Europe, Asia, and South America. Under his direction, the ensemble has strengthened its global reputation as the authentic Strauss Orchestra from Vienna. He has been awarded the GottlobFrick Medal in Germany and named “Honorary Artist Maestro Rainer Roos” by the Foshan Theater in China—honors that reflect his outstanding contributions to Viennese music and his role as a cultural ambassador.
