Search - Andre Rieu - New Year's in Vienna on DVD

K. K. (GAMER)
Reviewed on 12/8/2018...

Great sounding orchestra and Andre Rieu but many of the songs were not my cup of tea but may end up being yours. Several of the songs are ones you know though...

Putting the Fun in Sym-fun-ey

Rocky Raccoon | Boise, ID | 06/08/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the liveliest of all Andre' Rieu DVD's. And why not? It is New Year's Eve, and it is in Vienna, afterall. Besides being the most uplifting musically, the camera shots and editing are the best of his DVD's. The camera angles spin around audience members and get the right close-ups of orchestra members. This time around, there are more childlike antics between members in the orchestra. This outing is also characterized by the maestro telling engaging stories and joshing the audience. The smiles and energy are infectious. Furthermore, the outfits and lighting are the most vibrant, giving the audiences in Vienna and at home good cheer.

Unsurprisingly, greatest on the bill of fare are the waltzes. Starting with "Gold and Silver," they manage one of the most uplifting numbers to be found from their collection. Similarly, "Without a Care" is uniquely frenetic. The songs melt into one another with nearly flawless transition. Alternate songs, "Come, Zigany" and "The Juliska of Budapest" have a gypsy-like livliness; while another alternated pair, "Emperor Waltz" and "Vienna Blood Waltz" are simply exquisite. Then, playfulness comes not only with the theatrics, but from the music as well, including on "Adieu, Mein Kleiner Gardeffizier" and "Circus Renz," with the latter featuring a nimble xylophone performance by a featured percussion player. In addition, there is a quietly beautiful jazz piece called "The Second Waltz". For additional variety, "Strauss and Co. Medley" and "Rigoletto Potpourri" stimulate the audience even further. And, finally, "The Gypsey Princess Medley" and "Carnival of Venice" are upbeat and festive additions for this happy occasion.

The downside is that there are some song repeats. However, since an Andre Rieu experience stays on the shelf less often than most DVD's, it is worth it. Nevertheless, "The Blue Danube Waltz," "Finiculi, Finicula," "Chianti Song," "Stars and Stripes," and "Brazil Symphony" can be found elsewhere*, but since this should be one of the first purchases, you will be hooked and want to experience these songs again and again.

'New Year's in Vienna' displays all their musical and entertainment prowess with an enthusiastic, fun-loving crowd during a festive occasion. This DVD is his most energetic. While 'Tuscany' excels with romance, and 'Royal Albert Hall' exemplifies variety, 'New Year's in Vienna' is his most magnificent. Obviously, you have to love waltzes. If you merely like them, you will love them here.

*'Royal Albert Hall,' 'Tuscany,' 'Live in Dublin,' respectively.

"

Happy New Year!

Onie | Pittsburgh PA | 11/07/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"An excellent DVD. Presented in anamorphic widescreen, it looks and sounds incredible.

While there are no extras on the disc, the concert more than makes up for it. Energetic, electric and full of life, this is one of the better Andre Rieu concerts available on DVD. Well worth getting and enjoying time and time again."

I have seen it before ...

Peter Y. Lu | 11/05/2005

(3 out of 5 stars)

"If you don't have any Andre's DVD, this is a good one. But, the entire program is a duplicate of the "live at Royal Albert Hall" show. I think the "Live" is the better of the two.

I give it only a 3 star because of the similar program. Feels somewhat been cheated.
"