André Rieux and his Johann Strauss Orchestra

 Who is André Rieu?

André Rieu (born October 1, 1949, in Maastricht) is a world-famous Dutch violinist, conductor, and entrepreneur. He is known as the "King of the Waltz" and made classical music accessible to a mass audience by combining it with show, entertainment, and popular melodies.

 Breakthrough and Career

Founding of the Johann Strauss Orchestra In 1987, Rieu founded the Johann Strauss Orchestra. Currently: often 50–60 musicians on stage.

Breakthrough in the 1990s with the Second Waltz

• Annual Vrijthof concerts in Maastricht.
• Millions of sold CDs and DVDs.
• World tours in Europe, the US, Australia, and Asia.

His Violin

Rieu plays a Stradivarius from 1732, built by Antonio Stradivari. This instrument has enormous historical and financial value.

Awards and Honors (Selection)

• Knight in the Order of the Netherlands Lion.
• Multiple platinum albums worldwide.
• High ratings on international hit lists.