In the original dustsheet. Black cloth binding with gilt title on the spine.

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                            The Sunday Times bestseller

The tale of two Waltz Kings: how the Strauss family took Europe by storm during the nineteenth century. The Strauss family name is forever intertwined with Vienna – as is their music. Two generations of this remarkable family transformed and popularised the waltz, delighting all of Viennese society with their prolific compositions. But behind the melody lay a darker discord, as the Strausses tore themselves apart while Vienna itself struggled to secure its place in a rapidly changing world. In The Last Waltz John Suchet skilfully portrays this gripping story, capturing the family dramas, the tensions, triumphs and disasters, all set against the turbulent backdrop of Austria in the nineteenth century, from revolution to regicide. Discover the truth behind Vienna’s extraordinary musical dynasty.

Review: This book certainly succeeded in sorting out the Strauss family for me . I had always been somewhat confused as to who was who and who had written what? They all seemed a little limited by their musical genre but equally if Mother Strauss decreed it they could drop their profession of choice and seemingly at the drop of a hat , suddenly become proficient conductors , not to mention violinists and prolific composers!! I was interested to read the political backdrop to the book and where Vienna stood in Europe during the Strauss era. They were a decadent lot weren’t they, thank goodness women have taken their place in the world since then and are no longer content to be the wronged wife or the indulged mistress ! They now conduct the Orchestra!

The Strauss Family is a 1972 British Associated Television series of eight episodes, about the family of composers of that name, including Johann Strauss I and his sons Johann Strauss II, Eduard Strauss and Josef Strauss. The series was written by Anthony Skene, David Reid and David Butler, and directed by David Giles, David Reid and Peter Potter. Anne Stallybrass was nominated for the British Academy Television Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Anna Strauss. ABC broadcast The Strauss Family in the United States from 5 May to 16 June 1973.