Music Feature - Water Music

Dr Ian Bradley travels to Baden in Austria and Baden-Baden in Germany to discover how in the 18th and 19th centuries, amidst the fountains and cascades, the Kurparks and casinos, these European spa towns inspired serious composition from the likes of Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms and Berlioz. In conversation with local guides and on location in casinos, parks and even taking a dip in the spas, Bradley traces notable stories behind the music. Including Mozart climbing through windows to visit his ailing wife and his musical gift to the local church organist. Then Beethoven and his disagreements with the Baden landlords, his spa cures and inspiring walks in the countryside. He also looks at Berlioz's neuralgia and his commissions from the aspiring local casino owner; as well as Brahms' love for Clara Schumann and the blue composing room in his little white-shingled house.