The fascinating world of Johann Strauss: an exhibition of the highlights

The fascinating world of Johann Strauss: an exhibition of the highlights

A fascinating journey through time to the world of Johann Strauss opens on December 4, 2024 in the Theatermuseum Vienna with the exhibition "Johann Strauss - The Exhibition". Curated by Thomas Aigner and Karin Neuwirth, the show offers over 300 exhibits, including the original score of the operetta "The Bat". This uniqueness not only gives the exhibition a historical value, because as Thomas Aigner, former head of the music collection of the Wienbibliothek, emphasizes, the score is the most valuable individual object of the Wienbibliothek. The exhibition follows the motto "Happy, who forgets!", Which symbolizes the role of Strauss' music in Vienna Society, especially at the time of the economic crisis.

A special focus is on the “company Strauss”, which not only treats Johann Strauss as an artist, but also illuminates his influences as an organizer and family man. In two rooms, the influence of his wife Jetty Treffz, who encouraged him to the operetta, and the roles of his brothers and his mother are recognized in the organization of artistic work. These aspects are also captured in the new publication "Johann Strauss-A Life for Music", published by Thomas Aigner, Stefan Engl and Kyra Waldner in historically conscious Residenz Verlag . This scientific work illuminates how Strauss' musical career and comprehensive organizational talent in Austria shaped the cultural heritage.

intimate insights into the life of the composer

Another highlight are the love letters from Strauss to his beloved Olga Smirnitskaja, which give an insight into the deep emotions and inner struggles of the composer. Thomas Aigner found these letters in 1993 and emphasized that she illustrates Strauss' mental needs and his passion. His famous works are also represented with first editions and stories about his travels and operettas, which underlines the versatility of the exceptional composer.

The exhibition will be open daily by June 23, 2025 and reflects the importance of Johann Strauss for the Austrian music culture, including the famous New Year's concert, which is recognized in a separate section. Visitors can look forward to an impressive collection and a deeper connection to the music and life of this historical artist.