Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Part Song

Compose Date

:

before 1603

Publication Date

:

1603

Average_duration

:

2:00

John Dowland's "Say, Love if ever thou didst find" is a beautiful and melancholic song that was composed in the late 16th century. The song was first published in Dowland's collection of songs called "The Second Booke of Songs or Ayres" in 1600. The song is written in the form of a lute song, which was a popular genre of music during the Renaissance. The lute was a stringed instrument that was commonly used to accompany vocal music. Dowland was a skilled lutenist and his songs were often written with the lute in mind. "Say, Love if ever thou didst find" is a four-movement song that is characterized by its beautiful melody and poignant lyrics. The first movement begins with a simple and plaintive melody that sets the tone for the rest of the song. The lyrics speak of the pain of unrequited love and the longing for a love that will never be returned. The second movement is more complex and features a more intricate melody. The lyrics continue to explore the theme of unrequited love, but also touch on the idea of the fleeting nature of love. The third movement is a brief instrumental interlude that features a beautiful lute solo. This movement serves as a moment of reflection and contemplation before the final movement. The fourth and final movement is a return to the simple and plaintive melody of the first movement. The lyrics speak of the pain of love and the desire to be released from its grip. The song ends on a melancholic note, with the singer resigned to their fate of unrequited love. Overall, "Say, Love if ever thou didst find" is a beautiful and haunting song that captures the essence of the Renaissance era. Dowland's skillful use of melody and lyrics creates a powerful emotional impact that still resonates with listeners today.

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