About the Vienna Waltz Ensemble

The ensemble specializes in performing irresistible period dance music rarely heard outside central Europe.

The combination of bass and two violins was the 1800’s equivalent of a rock band, causing an uproar in polite society and sweeping dance halls, coffee houses, taverns and palaces across Europe. There was even a period when the waltz was banned in Vienna.

Of course, the music prevailed. The minuets, waltzes, polkas and German dances were the joyful and melodic precursors of much of our dance music, as well as a dramatic influence on the structure of the classical symphony itself. In that spirit, the Vienna Waltz Ensemble enjoys playing for a wide variety of events at cultural centers, fund raisers, conferences, dances, as well as performing in concert. Vienna Waltz Ensemble “informances” are accompanied by charming commentary combining anecdotes along with historical facts.

Bassist Greg Sarchet formed the group in 1996 as a result of his research into a body of music virtually unknown in the United States. While touring the Czech Republic several years earlier he was captivated by unfamiliar music he heard played in restaurants and cafes by trios composed of a double bass and two violins.

While his European colleagues seemed completely familiar with the pieces, the Juilliard graduate was astonished to learn that many of the selections were the work of some of the greatest names in Western music, such as Schubert, Rossini, Beethoven, and Johann Strauss.

Always searching for exciting new music suitable for the bass, Sarchet began in-depth archival research, which took him from the Czech Republic across Germany, Austria and Hungary to Great Britain.

In 1996 and again in 1998 he received Chicago Artists International Program awards to continue his investigation, perform and attend master classes in Europe.

The collection of rare musical manuscripts he assembled became the repertoire of the Vienna Waltz Ensemble. The selections span from the 1770s to World War I. The Vienna Waltz Ensemble is the exclusive American source researching and performing this rare archival music composed from about 1770 to W.W. I in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Their self-titled debut CD, "Vienna Waltz Ensemble" was cited Billboard Critic's Choice. A second CD, entitled "Flourish" also features world premiere recordings of works drawn from their collection of rare manuscripts.