The Band of the Vienna Imperial and Royal Infantry Regiment No. 4

The Band of the Vienna Imperial and Royal Infantry Regiment No. 4 (k.u.k. Wiener Regimentskapelle IR4)

Friedrich Lentne, Bandmaster.

The history of the Band of the Vienna Imperial and Royal Infantry Regiment No. 4 dates back to 1741.

Once favorite ensemble of the Emperor, its history has always been very closely linked to that of the regiment. The unit was one of the four private regiments of the Habsburg emperors formed after the reorganization of the Teutonic Order Regiment.

In the course of time many famous musicians were members of the band, which soon developed into one of the Viennese leading orchestras. In 1893 it had the honor to perform at the World Exhibition in Chicago.

The dissolution of all military structures of the Danube Monarchy following proclamation of the Republic in November 1918 also meant the end of the original orchestra.

It was only in 1977 that the present-day military band was formed with the aim of fostering traditions of its glorious predecessor in the Austrian federal army.

In keeping with the spirit of the time and demands, the members of the band now also include ladies. The band plays mainly traditional and military music from the days of the Austrian Empire as well as Viennese music, and it also has its own excellent singer, Mr. Michael Wagner.

The band is largely known both at home and abroad and successfully performs at various international military tattoos.