The Eiffel Tower did not yet exist nearby when, in 1867, Johann Strauss II and his orchestra performed the instrumental version of The Blue Danube at the Paris Universal Exhibition, before diplomatic delegations from all over the world. The success was such that Strauss became known as the “King of the Waltz”, a true international pop star of his time. It was a foretaste of a tradition that has endured to this day on a global scale: the New Year’s Concert. The elegance of Strauss’s timeless melodies continues to convey the energy we need to face new cycles with positivity and a full heart. To toast the arrival of 2026, this programme brings together glamour from both ends of Europe. From Moscow come the exuberance of Khachaturian and the romantic refinement of Tchaikovsky; from the sunlit Iberian Peninsula, the vigorous joy of Freitas Branco and the salero of de Falla.
New Year’s Concert – Waltzes and Polkas
Orquestra Metropolitana de Lisboa
J. Strauss II – Roses from the South, Waltz, Op. 388
J. Strauss II – At the Hunt, Quick Polka, Op. 373
A. Khachaturian – Waltz from the stage play Masquerade
L. de Freitas Branco – Fandango, Finale from Alentejana Suite No. 1
M. de Falla – Farruca (The Miller’s Dance), from the ballet The Three-Cornered Hat
P. I. Tchaikovsky – Waltz of the Flowers, from the ballet The Nutcracker
J. Strauss II – Tritsch-Tratsch, Quick Polka, Op. 365
J. Strauss II – The Blue Danube
Bruno Borralhinho, conductor
This concert will have seated audience accommodation, with approximately 300 seats.
Access to seated places requires advance reservation via the Colombo Loves Me app.
More information:
https://www.colombo.pt/lifestyle/events/concerto-de-ano-novo-2026/
