Andre Rieu is a native of Maastricht in the Netherlands, and music runs in his family since his father conducted the Maastricht Symphony Orchestra. He was only five when he began violin lessons, eventually studying at conservatories in Brussels, Maastrict, and Liège. He fell in love with the waltz, recognizing how audiences responded to this musical format when played live.
Rieu formed his own group in 1987, calling it the Johann Strauss Orchestra, and focused on playing waltzes. Rieu and his orchestra have released CDs and videos, as well as more than 80 albums, some of which have gone platinum. The latest, “Happy Together,” dropped in November 2021.
The orchestra has approximately 60 members and tours worldwide, almost always ending up on Billboard’s Top 25 tours list. In 2009, Billboard recognized Rieu as the world’s most successful male touring artist. He and the orchestra perform 70 to 100 shows annually, with Rieu often playing the violin and conducting simultaneously. When performances like this are scheduled, organizers can use brochure printing to create informative programs for audiences.
A concert review said:
“From 8 p.m. I was transported to another world....it was definitely a night I will always remember! Andre and his orchestra and guests are phenomenal entertainers, their talents are endless....”
Rieu will be at the Pechanga Arena San Diego on Sports Arena Boulevard on March 17 at 8:00 pm.