Episode #95: Vienna 1874: Die Fledermaus and the World of Johann Strauss II
The world of Vienna at the end of the 19th century and into the early 20th was a world of change. New design, new fashion and new philosophy -and new music. But amidst sweeping change, the Viennese drank champagne and were swept along by the works of the great Johann Strauss II, known appropriately as the “Waltz King”. One of his greatest works is the operetta meganit Die Fledermaus which underneath the frivolity and popping champagne corks lies a darker vision and foreshadowing of a very different world to come.
In this episode, Carl is joined by returning musicologist and professional musician, Dr. Christopher Brellochs for a look at Strauss and his most famous work — how he created it and what he was trying to communicate to audiences. In addition, Carl and Christ take a look at another blockbuster operetta, The Merry Widow by Franz Lehar and discuss how the musical form has evolved into a modern era. Lastly, this episode ends with a look at just how works like Die Fledermaus and The Merry Widow have influenced our modern Broadway musical theatre today.
Carl is joined by special guest:
Dr. Christpher Brellochs, a historian and professional musician who has appeared on The Gilded Age series on HBO as John Knowles Paine.
LISTEN NOW: Vienna 1874: Die Fledermaus and the World of Johann Strauss II
Related Podcast:
Music of the Gilded Age: Symphonies to Saxophones