An Italian Winter
Kate Molleson follows Mendelssohn's grand tour through Venice, Rome and Naples.
This week, Kate Molleson follows Felix Mendelssohn's travels across Europe. Today, Italy provides the backdrop for one of the happiest periods of the composer's life. From the canals of Venice to the artistic riches of Rome and the bustling streets of Naples, Mendelssohn soaks up new sights, sounds and landscapes while forging friendships with fellow artists, including Hector Berlioz. Yet alongside the beauty of his surroundings, he encounters political upheaval, religious spectacle and musical traditions that challenge his deeply held convictions.
Venetian Gondola Song
Bohdan Warchal, piano
Ave Maria
The Sixteen
Harry Christophers, conductor
Symphony No. 5 in D major 'Reformation', Op. 107: IV. Chorale, "Ein feste Burg"
Freiburger Barockorchester
Pablo Heras-Casado, conductor
Psalm No. 115, Nicht unserm Namen, Herr, Op. 31
Gulbenkian Choir and Orchestra
Michel Corboz, conductor
Symphony No. 4 in A major 'Italian', Op. 90 (movements 3 and 4)
London Symphony Orchestra
Claudio Abbado, conductor
Produced by Ellie Ajao for BBC Audio Wales and West.
On radio
Broadcast
- Thu 20 Aug 202616:00BBC Radio 3
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