Scored for 3 Violins (or 2 Violins & Viola) & Double Bass (or Cello).

Recognised as the founding father of the Viennese Waltz, and of the Strauss dynasty, Johann Strauss I was a prolific and popular composer in early 19th-century Vienna. His waltzes are always lively and elegant and Die Landjunker is typical of his style, combining strongly rhythmic dance music allied to elegant and beautifully crafted melodies. Much of the melodic interest is given to Violin 1, and this edition has the flexibility to be played by a range of string quartet combinations.

"The welcome comments at the back of David Heyes' edition of Die Landjunker Waltz not only have notes about the composer, but also, in the notes about the piece, give an interesting reason for the use of the bass in preference to the cello. However, this shouldn't prevent a cello from being used if a bass is unavailable, and it is good that either a viola or third violin can play in the ensemble. A first violinist in advance of an elementary standard (or perhaps a teacher) should be used in this excellent arrangement - a very good way to encounter some wonderful music." (Music Teacher)

"...The only demands made on the bass player is to play in time, in tune, and with a tasteful, resonant sound. While some bassists might wish for more notes, the pleasure of playing this beguiling music with friends will be enough for most." (Double Bassist)

"This music is one continuous piece consisting of an introduction, five waltzes and a substantial coda. All the waltzes have both sections repeated, with first and second time bars and da capo clearly marked as needed. Johann Strauss I used the double bass rather than the cello, in order to 'give a strong and definite beat for the dancers above the noise and clamour in the many concert halls and taverns of Vienna'. David Heyes goes on to say that the introduction begins with a strong and arresting theme to attract the attention of the dancers. Waltz 1 begins slowly and gently, quickly gathering pace. There are many syncopations and cross beat rhythms, and the second violin has some playing in 3rds with the first violin. The bass part is somewhat less challenging, frequently playing only a note per bar. The third violin part has the name 'viola' in brackets, but in fact is only written in the treble clef, so is just a token gesture. The music is printed well, and the stapled parts have an attractive design on the covers. There are bar numbers and no bowing or fingering. Assuming a competent first violinist, and a liking for Johann Strauss, this is a piece worthy of adding to a school's music library." [ESTA - News & Views]

Performance Level: 5/6