In 1892 Johann Strauss composed 'Ritter Pásmán', a three-act opera with a libretto by Ludwig Dóczi based on a Hungarian narrative poem. When the opera's debut was announced, it was met with great enthusiasm, as was the case with most of Strauss' works, and it attracted special attention because it was Strauss' first (and only) opera. However, at its premiere, it was received coldly, and most critics predicted that it would not last long at the opera house. Some critics, however, noted that the instrumentation of the opera was commendable.
'Ritter Pásmán' does have a few famous numbers. Most notably the 'Eva Waltz' in act 2 and even more well known is the 'Csárdás' in the ballet of act 3. This 'Csárdás' has become a real show stopper that has been performed many times at the New Year's concerts in Vienna. Dutch arranger Jos van de Braak transcribed this 'Csárdás' for Symphonic Band.