The Johann Strauss Ensemble is a classical music ensemble that specializes in the works of the Strauss family, particularly Johann Strauss II. The ensemble was founded in 1985 by conductor András Deák, who sought to revive the Viennese tradition of playing Strauss waltzes and polkas in their original style. The ensemble's main members include violinists László Bóni and László Kuti, cellist László Mező, and pianist János Balázs. They are joined by a rotating cast of musicians who play various wind and percussion instruments, depending on the repertoire. One of the ensemble's early highlights was their performance at the 1987 Budapest Spring Festival, where they played a program of Strauss waltzes and polkas to great acclaim. This led to more invitations to perform at festivals and concert halls throughout Europe, including the Vienna Musikverein and the Berlin Philharmonic. In 1990, the ensemble released their first album, "The Strauss Family in Vienna," which featured some of the most beloved works of Johann Strauss II, as well as pieces by his father and brothers. The album was a commercial success and helped to establish the ensemble as one of the leading interpreters of Strauss's music. Over the years, the Johann Strauss Ensemble has continued to perform and record the music of the Strauss family, as well as other composers of the Viennese tradition, such as Franz Lehár and Emmerich Kálmán. They have also collaborated with other artists, including the Vienna Boys' Choir and the Hungarian State Opera. One of the ensemble's most memorable performances was their New Year's Day concert in 2000, which was broadcast live on television throughout Europe. The concert featured a program of Strauss waltzes and polkas, as well as a special tribute to the music of Franz Lehár. The concert was a huge success and helped to cement the ensemble's reputation as one of the premier interpreters of Viennese music. In addition to their live performances, the Johann Strauss Ensemble has also received critical acclaim for their recordings. They have released over a dozen albums, including "Viennese Bonbons," "The Best of Strauss," and "The Magic of Vienna." Their recordings have won numerous awards, including the Hungarian Grammy and the Echo Klassik award. Despite their success, the Johann Strauss Ensemble remains committed to preserving the traditions of Viennese music. They continue to perform and record the works of the Strauss family, as well as other composers of the genre, in their original style. Their dedication to this music has earned them a loyal following and a place in the pantheon of great classical music ensembles.

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