Schönbrunner Schrammeln is a classical music ensemble that has been entertaining audiences with their unique blend of Viennese folk music and classical music for over a century. The ensemble was founded in 1879 by brothers Josef and Johann Schrammel, who were both accomplished musicians in their own right. The Schrammel brothers were born in Vienna in the mid-19th century and grew up in a musical family. Their father was a violinist and their mother was a singer, and they both encouraged their sons to pursue music as a career. Josef and Johann both studied music at the Vienna Conservatory and became accomplished violinists. In the late 1870s, the Schrammel brothers began performing together as a duo, playing a mix of classical music and traditional Viennese folk music. They quickly gained a following and decided to form a larger ensemble, which they called the Schönbrunner Schrammeln. The ensemble consisted of four musicians: Josef and Johann Schrammel on violins, Anton Strohmayer on clarinet, and Georg Dänzer on accordion. They played a unique style of music that blended the elegance of classical music with the lively rhythms and melodies of Viennese folk music. The Schönbrunner Schrammeln quickly became popular in Vienna and throughout Austria, and they began touring throughout Europe. They performed for royalty and aristocrats, as well as for ordinary people in cafes and beer halls. One of the highlights of the ensemble's early career was their performance at the 1888 Paris Exposition, where they won a gold medal for their music. This helped to establish their reputation as one of the premier ensembles in Europe. Over the years, the Schönbrunner Schrammeln went through several personnel changes, but they continued to perform and record music. They released numerous albums and became known for their lively and entertaining performances. One of the most famous members of the ensemble was the clarinetist Anton Strohmayer, who played with the group for over 50 years. He was known for his virtuosic playing and his ability to improvise on the spot. Another notable member of the ensemble was the accordionist Franz Schrammel, who was the son of Johann Schrammel. He joined the group in the early 20th century and helped to modernize their sound, incorporating elements of jazz and other popular music styles. The Schönbrunner Schrammeln continued to perform and record music throughout the 20th century, and they became beloved by audiences around the world. They played at numerous festivals and concerts, and they were often featured on radio and television programs. One of the highlights of the ensemble's later career was their performance at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, where they played for athletes and spectators from around the world. They also performed at the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo, where they were a huge hit with audiences. Today, the Schönbrunner Schrammeln continues to perform and record music, carrying on the tradition of Viennese folk music and classical music that was established by the Schrammel brothers over a century ago. They are a beloved institution in Austria and around the world, and their music continues to bring joy and entertainment to audiences of all ages.

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