Which Austrian composer is honored by Vienna's annual New Year's Concert, held on January 1?

Johann Strauss II is the Austrian composer honored most prominently by Vienna's annual New Year's Concert.

The Vienna New Year's Concert is performed by the Vienna Philharmonic in the Musikverein's Golden Hall on January 1. Its program traditionally features waltzes, polkas, and other works by the Strauss family, especially Johann Strauss II, whose music includes “The Blue Danube” and the “Radetzky March.”

The concert began in 1939 and became an internationally broadcast New Year's tradition after the Second World War. Although Strauss II is central to its identity, the program can also include works by his father, Johann Strauss I, and other composers. The concert is often associated with New Year celebrations, but it is not a New Year's Eve event: it takes place on New Year's Day. That date distinction prevents confusion with midnight fireworks and countdown ceremonies held the previous night.