ADVENT CALENDAR – DAY 10

Today is the birthday of Emil Waldteufel (1837-1915).

Waldteufel was a graduate of the Paris Conservatory, who became a court pianist to Empress Eugénie. His orchestra played at state balls and, following the dissolution of the Second Empire, Presidential balls.

In 1874, he was heard by the Prince of Wales (the future King Edward VII), who introduced him to the London music scene. His success in London proved a springboard to world fame.

Here are two Waldteufel waltzes for the season. One is very well-known, one not so much so.

Les Patineurs (The Skaters):

Roses de Noël (Christmas Roses):

FUN FACT: Waldteufel’s surname is German for “Forest Devil.”