It began in TORONTO 16 years ago.  SALUTE TO VIENNA, a recreation of Vienna’s world famous annual ‘Neujahrskonzert’, has spread continent-wide to cities in both Canada and the United States.

Marion and Attila Glatz had a dream that a version of Vienna’s New Year’s Day Concert could be a solid hit, and they were right.  With hard work and dedication, this couple produced their first SALUTE in 1995 before a sell-out crowd of 1,000 at the Toronto Centre for the Arts in NORTH YORK.  There was such a demand for tickets, that the following year they moved into a much bigger venue – Roy Thomson Hall.  Almost immediately, every ticket was sold.

In the third year there were five concerts in five cities, including VANCOUVER and Lincoln Center in NEW YORK.  Fourth year – 15 cities.

The 2011/2012 SALUTE TO VIENNA will play in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Washington DC, Philadelphia, Florida, San Diego, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Quebec City – and of course, TORONTO.  17 concerts in 16 cities, all happening within a span of four days around New Year’s.  Attila Glatz Concert Productions hopes to expand soon to Australia, South America and possibly, Asia.

The original concert, from Vienna’s Opera House, is broadcast live to 1.3 billion worldwide on New Year’s Day.  It’s must-viewing in Europe, and has become extremely popular in Asia and North America as well.  Guest conductors from around the world, a star-studded audience, the magnificent theatre itself, and a generous helping of soloists, ballet, novelty tunes, and the waltzes of Johann Strauss lead to the climactic moment – a thrilling performance of the Blue Danube.

TORONTO’s concert at Roy Thomson Hall will be on January 1, 2012 at 2:30pm.  It’s wise to book well in advance.  http://www.salutetovienna.com