There are two types of people, some of us like to dance to loud music with fast beats, electric guitars, while others prefer to sit quietly and listen to an orchestra of strings, woodwind and brass playing in perfect unison.

André Rieu would disagree. For him, there's only one type of person: A music lover.

Rieu's Johann Strauss Orchestra,His new album is a declaration of love to the eternal city of Rome. On Roman Holiday, André Rieu dedicates himself to the most beautiful and popular Italian melodies, interpreting them in his very own way.

Just like Strauss himself, who preferred to perform in public parks rather than the salons of high society, Rieu stands in the centre of the stage at his concerts, amidst extravagant sets and a huge ensemble of musicians and chorus.
Also like Strauss, Rieu conducts his orchestra with his violin bow and breaks the dusty rules of classical music by making jokes, telling stories, and occasionally even adding a dash of slapstick comedy. All the while, the audience clap enthusiastically in the aisles, sing, hum and dance.

"I try to have fun on stage and also involve the audience", he says. "I think that classical music has lost its contact with the people. I'm happy when I play for the crowd and can be with them. That's what I do, and I simply love it!"