On January 1, 2025, at 11:15 AM, the Vienna Philharmonic will kick off the New Year with their celebrated New Year's Concert, under the baton of maestro Riccardo Muti at the grand Musikverein. This marks Muti's seventh time conducting the event, where he’ll lead the orchestra through delightful compositions predominantly from the famous Strauss family, coinciding with the 200th anniversary of Johann Strauss II.
This year, the concert will be broadcast to over 90 countries, with millions of viewers expected to tune in. Muti has had an extraordinary tenure with the Philharmonic, collaborating since 1971 and conducting over 500 concerts, including previous New Year's events, subscription concerts, and numerous tours.
The program for the concert is rich and colorful, featuring eight works by Johann Strauss II, two pieces from his father, Johann Strauss I, and compositions from his brothers, Eduard and Josef Strauss. Notably, the concert will also debut the "Ferdinandus-Walzer" by Constanze Geiger, marking the first time a work by a female composer is included in the New Year's Concert program.
Muti expressed his enthusiasm for this milestone, stating, "I conduct not because the piece is by a man or woman, but because the music is of high quality." This sentiment echoes the concert's theme: merging traditional elements with fresh perspectives.
Alongside the orchestral pieces, the Vienna State Ballet will perform during the concert. This year’s choreography, led by Cathy Marston, is especially notable as it celebrates the creativity of both the Strauss family and the contemporary interpretations of classical music.
The dynamic lineup includes the "Freiheits-Marsch" by Johann Strauss I, the "Dorfschwalben aus Österreich" waltz by Josef Strauss, and several renowned polkas and waltzes by Johann Strauss II such as the "Demolirer-Polka" and the "Lagunen-Walzer." The concert will conclude with the always-celebrated "An der schönen blauen Donau" waltz and the jubilant "Radetzky-Marsch," which is known for engaging the audience to clap along.
Beyond the musical performance, this year's concert continues to symbolize optimism and unity as the world transitions out of challenging times. Muti has emphasized the significance of such gatherings, particularly as platforms for friendship and peace through the universal language of music.
Fans will also enjoy the concert through various channels, with live broadcasts on television and radio, making the magic of the Vienna Philharmonic accessible to enthusiasts worldwide. With nearly half a century of tradition, the New Year's Concert promises to be another spectacular start to the year, embodying the enduring legacy of the Strausses and the unparalleled artistry of the Philharmonic.
The spotlight on Constanze Geiger’s work is part of broader efforts within the classical community to promote gender equity and diverse contributions within concert repertoires, which remain predominantly male-dominated. This year’s concert reflects the world’s rich cultural heritage, inviting audiences to appreciate both historical craftsmanship and modern creation.
Fans and new listeners alike are encouraged to tune in for what promises to be not just another concert, but a historical moment celebrating innovative progress alongside timeless tradition. For audience members at the venue and those watching from home, the 2025 Vienna Philharmonic New Year's Concert stands as both entertainment and cultural commentary, inviting all to join the celebration.