Radetzky-Marsch, Op. 228 - Johann Strauss Sr.

Presented for the first time in August 1848 in Vienna, Johann Strauss Sr's Radetzky-Marsch is one of the most famous marches ever composed, dedicated to Field Marshal Joseph Radetzky von Radetz. Strauss was commissioned to write it to commemorate Radetzky's victory in the battle of Custoza.Next to the waltz An der schnen blauen Donau - On the beautiful blue Danube - by Johann Strauss Jr, the Radetzky-Marsch has assumed the role of 'unofficial' Austrian anthem over time. When it was performed for the first time in front of officers, these began to beat their hands and feet to the rhythm of the music, giving life to a tradition often seen in many concert halls when the march is performed live.The Vienna Philharmonic always performs the march as the final piece in the famous New Year's Concert.