Karl Michael Ziehrer

Full biography Karl Michael Ziehrer

Karl Michael Ziehrer (1843-1922) was an Austrian composer known for his lively and cheerful dance and march music. He was born in Vienna, Austria, and started playing the violin at a young age. Ziehrer received his musical education in Vienna, where he studied with famous composers such as Johann Strauss II and Joseph Hellmesberger.

Like his predecessors, Johann Strauss I and Johann Strauss II, Ziehrer contributed greatly to the Viennese dance music tradition with his polkas, waltzes, and marches. His music was a favorite among the people and his popularity rivaled that of the Johann Strauss family.

During his lifetime, Ziehrer wrote over 600 compositions, including the famous "Wiener Burger" ("Viennese Citizen"), "Schönfeld Marsch" ("Schönfeld March"), and "Fächerpolonaise" ("Fan Polonaise"). His music was often performed at Viennese balls, concerts, and other social events.

Ziehrer's music was known for its strong rhythms, catchy melodies, and colorful orchestration. He was also known for his skillful use of various instruments such as timpani, piccolo, and bass drum to create dramatic effects.

Today, Ziehrer is remembered as one of the most important composers of Viennese dance music. His music continues to be performed by orchestras around the world and his legacy lives on as a vital part of Austria's rich musical heritage.