is a dance born in the suburbs of Vienna and alpine region of Austria. As early as the 17th century, Waltzes were played in the ballrooms of the Habsburg Court. The "Weller", or turning dances, were danced by peasants in Austria and Bavaria even before that time. Many of the familiar Waltz tunes can be traced back to simple peasant yodeling melodies.

From the german word "walzen", it describes a graceful, romantic couple dancing in 3/4 time, moving or gliding in a lively, conspicuous manner, advancing easily and successfully. Waltz rhythm (both in music and in dance) has a strong impulse; it is followed by two lighter beats (or steps), the second of these an upbeat "pushing" into the new first beat (... three ONE two - three ONE two ...)

Colorfully flowing ballgowns, black tails, beautiful music, enchanting melodies, it was the very "Scandal" of 19th century british society. Never before had a man and a woman danced publicly in a virtual embrace. Listen to the Music Rendition by: Wiener Volksoper Symphonieorchester

Court Ball at Vienna's Hofburg - 1900 - (by Wilhelm Gause)