What is the best André Rieu album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Waltzing Matilda" (2008). It's the most representative of what makes André Rieu worth hearing.

What are the best André Rieu albums?

The essential André Rieu albums include "Live in Vienna" (2008), "Waltzing Matilda" (2008), "Forever Vienna" (2009) and "And the Waltz Goes On" (2011).

How many albums does André Rieu have?

André Rieu has 92 releases in their discography, including 90 albums.

Photo: Karl-Heinz Meurer (--Charlie1965nrw 21:47, 11. Jan. 2009 (CET)) · CC BY-SA 3.0

André Rieu

Q: Who is André Rieu for?

If you're into classical and waltz, André Rieu is worth your time. Rieu’s performances pulse with lively waltz rhythms that invite movement, driven by sweeping strings and rich orchestral textures that create a buoyant atmosphere.

Rieu’s performances pulse with lively waltz rhythms that invite movement, driven by sweeping strings and rich orchestral textures that create a buoyant atmosphere.

waltz

Kingdom of the Netherlands

Read about André Rieu on Bookshop

Start here

The album

Live in Vienna (2008)

Showcases Rieu's lively waltz rhythms and rich orchestral textures, providing a vibrant introduction to his signature style.

The song

“The Second Waltz” from Strauß & co

An engaging piece that exemplifies Rieu's orchestral flair and ability to captivate audiences through danceable melodies.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"Wiener Melange" — from Waltzing Matilda (2008)

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"Blue Danube, Op. 314" — from Forever Vienna (2009)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Grande Valse Viennoise" — from And the Waltz Goes On (2011)

establishes the sonic palette early

About André Rieu

André Rieu represents a bridge between the revered traditions of classical music and the accessible joy of shared musical experiences.

By transforming orchestral performances into festive celebrations, he has reinvigorated interest in classical forms, drawing diverse audiences into concert halls.

By transforming orchestral performances into festive celebrations, he has reinvigorated interest in classical forms, drawing diverse audiences into concert halls. His ability to create an atmosphere where classical music feels both approachable and communal has made him a significant figure in contemporary music culture. Rieu's approach centers on engaging his audience through theatricality and an infectious sense of joy. Rather than presenting classical music as a distant art form reserved for elite listeners, he infuses his performances with warmth and charisma, often encouraging participation through clapping or dancing. This interactive style transforms concerts into immersive events, making the experience feel less like a formal recital and more like a grand celebration. In his songwriting, Rieu often explores themes of love, nostalgia, and cultural heritage, weaving stories that evoke emotions and memories. His tone balances sincerity with a light-hearted playfulness, crafting narratives that resonate across generations. With a knack for blending humor and sentimentality, he creates impressions rather than strictly defined tales, allowing audiences to connect with the music on a personal level.

90 studio albums· 92 total releases· 3 decades· Kingdom of the Netherlands