Get ready, music lovers! NPR is set to broadcast the world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic's New Year's Day concert, live from the legendary Musikverein in Vienna, on January 1, 2026. This is an event that has captivated audiences for decades, a true celebration of music and tradition.
The concert, a global highlight, will be conducted by the esteemed Yannick Nézet-Séguin, marking his inaugural appearance at the Vienna New Year's Day concert. He has a rich history with the orchestra, having performed with them nearly three dozen times since 2010, including tours in the US, one of which took place in California in March of 2025.
The 2026 program is particularly exciting, featuring six pieces never before performed on New Year's Day by the Vienna Philharmonic. Notably, this includes works by two female composers, a welcome addition that highlights the evolving landscape of classical music.
Of course, no New Year's concert would be complete without the beloved encores. Expect to hear the iconic Blue Danube Waltz and the spirited Radetzky March by Johann Strauss Senior, pieces that have become synonymous with the event.
But here's where it gets exciting for listeners: NPR Music has been bringing this musical experience to American public radio stations since 2003. This is no small feat; it's the largest live classical radio concert, reaching an impressive 391 stations last year alone.
The team behind the broadcast is a seasoned group. Host Lisa Mullins of NPR Member station WBUR, celebrates her 19th New Year's Day broadcast, while NPR engineer Andie Heuther is making her debut, and producer Brian Bell, with 28 broadcasts under his belt.
Here's a sneak peek at the program for New Year's Day 2026:
Part 1
- Johann Strauss Jr.: Indigo and the Forty Thieves: Overture
- Carl Michael Ziehrer: Danube Legends, Waltz Op. 446
- Josef Lanner: Malapou Galop Op. 148
- Eduard Strauss: Devil's Brew, Op. 154
- Johann Strauss Jr.: Fledermaus Quadrille, Op. 363
- Johann Strauss Sr.: Carnival in Paris, Op. 100
Part 2
- Franz von Suppé: The Beautiful Galatea: Overture
- Josephine Weinlich, arr. W. Dörner: Siren Songs, Op. 13
- Josef Strauss: Woman's Dignity, Waltz Op. 277
- Johann Strauss Jr.: Diplomat's Polka, Op. 448
- Florence Price, arr. W. Dörner: Rainbow Waltz
- Hans Christian Lumbye: Copenhagen Steam Railway Galop
- Johann Strauss Jr.: Roses from the South, Waltz, Op. 388
- Johann Strauss Jr.: Egyptian March, Op. 335
- Josef Strauss: Olive Branches, Waltz, Op. 207
Encores
- Philipp Fahrbach: Circus, Op.110 (First performance at a New Year's Concert by the Vienna Philharmonic)
- Johann Strauss Jr.: On the Beautiful Blue Danube, Waltz, Op. 314
- Johann Strauss Sr.: Radetzky March, Op. 228 (Arrangement: Vienna Philharmonic)
About NPR:
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About NPR Music:
For over a decade, NPR Music has been a champion of music journalism and original video programming. It collaborates with NPR's news magazines, public radio Member stations, and its engaged listener community to celebrate exceptional music and emerging artists. Explore the Tiny Desk concert series, music features, podcasts, and more at NPRMusic.org. Connect with NPR Music on Facebook and Instagram.
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What do you think? Are you a fan of the Vienna Philharmonic's New Year's Day concert? What are your favorite pieces from the program? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And, what do you think about the inclusion of music by women composers? Let's discuss!
