Strauss, Johann, strows or shtrows, YOH hahn, Jr. (1825-1899), was an Austrian composer who became known as the "Waltz King." Strauss composed nearly 400 waltzes that represent the peak of their style. He also composed other popular orchestral dance works and 16 operettas. In addition, he was a violinist and the leader of a successful orchestra that played light music.