The composer, Joseph Hellmesberger, lived in the
second half of the 19th century and composed
light music and operetta. Included in his output
were a variety of dances and Danse Diabolique is
such an exciting piece, with an energetic waltz at
its heart. The use of the Phrygian mode (D-Eb-F-GA-
Bb-C) engenders a devil-like atmosphere and
adds spice to the composition.