Radio 3

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.