Andre Rieu

Andre Rieu is a Dutch violinist and conductor known for his global revival of waltz music and for leading the Johann Strauss Orchestra. After receiving the prestigious ‘Premier Prix’ from the Royal Conservatory of Brussels in 1977, Andre Rieu went on to found the internationally acclaimed Johann Strauss Orchestra in 1987. His formal musical education included studies at the Conservatoire Royal in Liège and the Conservatorium Maastricht from 1968 to 1973, followed by training at the Music Academy in Brussels from 1974 to 1977. The Johann Strauss Orchestra, initially comprising 12 members, gave its inaugural performance on January 1, 1988, and has since expanded to include between 50 and 60 highly skilled musicians.

Rieu, a virtuoso violinist, exclusively performs with a rare 1667 Stradivarius violin, a testament to his dedication to classical excellence. The Johann Strauss Orchestra has since become a global phenomenon, touring extensively across Europe, North and South America, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. These world tours, active since 1988, are celebrated for their elaborate and ambitious productions, notably including a full-size reproduction of Empress Sisi’s Castle in 2008, which was recognized at the time as the largest stage setup ever to embark on tour. Rieu’s commitment to delivering unparalleled live experiences has resulted in his global tours consistently ranking among the top-grossing of the year, frequently competing with tours by contemporary popular music artists worldwide.

Rieu’s dedication to his craft, combined with his theatrical stage presentations, solidify his position as a unique and highly sought-after talent in the entertainment industry. He remains a leading figure in the global music scene, continually expanding his reach and bringing the joy of waltz music to new generations of fans.