In a career that spanned a period from the 1820s until his death in 1849, the older Johann Strauss established an unrivalled position for himself among composers and performers of dance music in Vienna. His own achievements were continued by his three sons, ensuring that the name of Strauss was inextricably identified with the musical pleasures of nineteenth century Vienna.

The Waltzes included on this recording all reflect topical events. Two sets are a tribute to the great ballerina Marie Taglioni; the Dance Prescriptions, written for the medical fraternity, were said to quicken the pulse sufficiently to cure even the worst hypochondriac, while Myrtles named by Strauss after the evergreen plant symbolic of undying love, celebrated the wedding of Queen Victoria.