Andre Rieu

Andre Rieu's History

André Rieu is a Dutch violinist, conductor, and composer who is known for his contemporary interpretations of classical music. He was born in Maastricht, Netherlands, on October 1, 1949. Rieu started playing the violin at the age of five. He studied violin at the conservatory in Brussels and then in Rotterdam, where he was the student of André Gertler. After his studies, Rieu worked with various orchestras in the Netherlands, including the Limburg Symphony Orchestra, which he founded in 1987.

Rieu's music has been described as "light classical" or "easy listening," and it often includes elements of waltz and polka. His performances are known for their theatricality, with Rieu often conducting while dancing and interacting with the audience. His concerts feature large orchestras, choirs, and soloists, and they are often held in grand venues such as arenas and stadiums.

Rieu's popularity began to skyrocket in the 1990s, thanks in part to his televised concerts and recordings. He has released over 100 albums, many of which have reached the top of the classical charts in various countries. His 2004 album "The Flying Dutchman" became his first to top the UK album charts, and he has since had several more chart-topping albums. Rieu's live performances are also hugely popular; in 2008, he performed a series of concerts in Australia and New Zealand that sold over 200,000 tickets.

One of Rieu's most famous concert series is his annual series of concerts held in his hometown of Maastricht, known as the "Vrijthof concerts." These concerts are held in the town square, which is transformed into a massive outdoor concert venue. The concerts feature Rieu conducting his orchestra in front of thousands of fans, and they are known for their elaborate stage setups, including giant screens and pyrotechnics. The Vrijthof concerts have become a beloved tradition in Maastricht, and they attract fans from all over the world.

Fans of André Rieu can purchase tickets to his concerts through various channels. Many tickets are sold through traditional outlets such as Ticketmaster and Live Nation. However, Rieu also has a dedicated ticketing website, andre-rieu-tickets.com, where fans can purchase tickets to his concerts directly. The website also includes information about upcoming concerts, as well as details about Rieu's latest albums and merchandise.

In addition to his music career, Rieu is also known for his philanthropy. He has supported various charitable causes over the years, including UNICEF and the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology. Rieu also founded the André Rieu Foundation, which supports music education and provides musical instruments to children in impoverished areas.

In conclusion, André Rieu is a highly successful and beloved musician who has captured the hearts of music fans around the world. His unique blend of classical music and showmanship has made him a popular live performer, and his annual concerts in Maastricht are a highlight of the summer calendar for many. Fans can purchase tickets to his concerts through various channels, and they can also support Rieu's charitable efforts through the André Rieu Foundation.

More About Andre Rieu

One of the biggest draws for Andre Rieu's fans are his live performances. His concerts are a spectacle that engage the audience in an unforgettable musical journey while showcasing the beauty of classical music. Here are some of Andre Rieu’s most popular live songs that keep fans coming back for more:

1. "The Blue Danube" - One of Andre Rieu's most famous performances, "The Blue Danube" is a waltz composed by Johann Strauss II and has become synonymous with Andre Rieu's captivating stage performances. The song is a classic example of his mastery of the violin, and never fails to transport audiences to a magical world of music.

2. "Boléro" - This grand French classic is one of Andre Rieu's most popular live songs. The grandeur of the piece is brought to life by Rieu’s boundless energy and his ensemble’s masterful performance.

3. "The Second Waltz" - Written by Dmitri Shostakovich, "The Second Waltz" is one of the most iconic pieces of Andre Rieu's repertoire. It is a beautiful waltz that captures the essence of the Viennese music tradition and gives audiences goosebumps every time he plays it.

4. "Triumphal March" - From Giuseppe Verdi's famous opera "Aida," this piece is one of the most dramatic and majestic selections in Andre Rieu's repertoire. The song’s soaring melodies, combined with the orchestra's thunderous crescendos and stirring vocal solos, create a memorable and moving live experience.

5. "Zorba's Dance" - This lively and upbeat dance is one of the most popular songs in Andre Rieu's repertoire. The song’s catchy melody and irresistible rhythm get audiences on their feet and dancing along, making it a must-see performance at any of his live events.

Andre Rieu's live performances are among the most sought-after events in the world. Fans flock to his concerts from all corners of the globe, making his live events some of the most talked-about musical events of the year. Every year, he tours extensively, performing not only in Europe but also in the United States, Canada, and South America, among other destinations.

Tickets for Andre Rieu's concerts sell out weeks and months in advance, and his dedicated fans are always eager to get their hands on tickets to his shows. It's not surprising, given the energy and passion that Rieu puts into every performance.

In conclusion, Andre Rieu's live performances have become a must-see event, and his most popular live songs are the backbone of his show-stopping performances. Fans around the world continue to eagerly anticipate his next tour, and tickets to his shows remain some of the most coveted in the music world. It is clear that with his exquisite musical showmanship and passionate performances, Andre Rieu will continue to captivate his audiences and sell out arenas for years to come.