André Rieu on Maastricht, touring and collaborations

He might be famous for his flamboyant Viennese costumes and massive stadium performances, but when André Rieu started out with the Johann Strauss Orchestra 25 years ago, the spectacle was something quite different - an orchestra of a handful of musicians, all wearing black, and enjoying the music of the waltz. Ahead of the release of his latest album, In Love with Maastricht, he shared his humble beginnings with Classic FM's Nick Bailey, in a characteristically cheery interview.

He might be an old hand when it comes to touring the world with waltz music, but what does he think about the world of classical crossover? He certainly has some interesting projects in the pipeline, including working with Jermaine Jackson, and recording an album of ABBA's music: "At first I was reluctant to do it, but you know, why not? I always approach everything I do with my classical education. So even when I make an ABBA album, or a Michael Jackson album, you will hear that it's me."

If André gets his way, perhaps we'll see an André Rieu and friends album in the future, featuring the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Madonna, and Chris de Burgh…? Fans of the waltz, watch this space.

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