Johann II assembled his first orchestra at the age of 19, making his debut in October 1844. His success was instantaneous. ‘Good night, Lanner. Good evening, Father Strauss. Good morning, Son Strauss’ ...

He had six children, of whom three survived infancy and went on to become dance musicians. Johann Strauss II was his eldest child. He started his own orchestra in 1844, which came to rival his ...