Download of the Week: Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4 in A, op. 90 'Italian'

In May 1830, having just turned down the chair of music at the Universtiy of Berlin, Mendelssohn took up Goethe's suggestion and began a trip to Italy. Still only 21, the youthful composer found much to inspire him and began work on the Italian Symphony when he reached Rome in October. Trips to Naples, where Mendelssohn was greatly moved by the poverty of the Neapolitans, Florence, and Milan followed, before returning to Germany via Switzerland. He completed the Symphony in Berlin and first performed it on March 13th 1833 in London.

This recording is performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra; Stefan Sanderling, conductor.

Download this work now through May 22nd, 2008.