Johann Strauss I

Johann Strauss I (1804-1849) was an Austrian composer of the 19th century, one of the leading conductors of Viennese light music, and the father of Johann II, Josef, and Eduard Strauss, who all followed in his footsteps. Through association with Joseph Lanner, Strauss started his career in his teens, and after forming his own orchestra, began composing dance music. In the 1830s and '40s, Strauss toured with his ensemble, performing across Europe and traveling as far as England. Strauss never achieved the lasting fame of his eldest son, though many of his waltzes, quadrilles, and polkas are still played.