World renowned violinist Andre Rieu waltzed into Aberdeen last night with his perfectly-formed Johan Strauss Orchestra loyally at his back.
Thousands of the classical music megastars’ adoring fans packed into the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (AECC) to get a little bit of a culture fix before Christmas.
Not scared off by the gale force winds battering the region, both young and old travelled from across the north-east to witness what can only be described as a musical circus.
Addressing his captivated audience, Rieu told them: “Tonight we are going to warm your heart – and this weather – with music.”
The crowd had been promised a night filled with Rieu’s mix of waltzes, popular music and comedy – and he certainly delivered.
As they gazed upon the highly flamboyant, colour clad orchestra and its equally eccentric conductor, the Dutch “King of Waltz” delivered a wonder-filled evening that put the Last Night of the Proms to shame. The stage was set like a winter wonderland – with fake snow sparkling under the bright lights – while the music stands were adorned with garlands of festive tinsel.
The orchestra’s stunning gowns and tuxedos were also a sight to behold – Rieu and his orchestra looked more like Disney royalty than musicians.
But although beautiful, they looked ever so slightly out of place when magnificent shots of the Granite City and Aberdeenshire were cast upon the big screen behind them as they launched into their first waltz.
It is well known that Rieu and his orchestra have been the subject of many a music critic, who do not think his take on the classics is “pure” nor “traditional”.
But his aim is “to bring classical music to all”, and that is exactly what he achieved last night.
The Dutch virtuoso’s show was full of fun, laughter, interaction and breath-taking musical performances.
He managed to perfectly create an atmosphere which allowed people with no vast knowledge of the arts to be carried away for the night.
And even through the showmanship it is clear to see, Rieu is undeniably a fabulous violinist as he proudly graced the stage with his 300-year-old Stradivarius violin.
“It’s wonderful to see how people from all over the world dance and sing along with us no matter if they’re young or old,” he said.
“We all have a lot of fun and I see so many happy faces each night in front of me. This proves that classical music is for everyone and that we were able to reach our audiences’ hearts.”
The 66-year-old, who created the Johann Strauss Orchestra in 1987, has turned classical and waltz music into a worldwide concert touring act.
The orchestra, which now has more than 100 members, began with only 12 musicians.
Together, Rieu and his team have become known for their melodramatic stage performances and rock-star demeanour. The troupe are now just as successful as some of the biggest names in rock and pop with tickets often selling for more than £100 each.
And to illustrate their success, Rieu and his orchestra will be back at the AECC tonight for another performance. Rieu promised to warm our hearts – and the weather – with his music. He may have failed with the latter, but he certainly filled the cavernous hall with the love and sound of music.
