Composer

:

Toyohiko Satoh

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

4:37

Tombeau de Mr. D. Philips is a composition for solo lute by the Japanese lutenist and composer Toyohiko Satoh. The piece was composed in 1993 as a tribute to the English composer and lutenist John Dowland, whose music Satoh had studied extensively. The premiere of the piece took place in Tokyo in 1994, and it has since become a staple of the lute repertoire. The piece is divided into five movements, each of which is named after a different aspect of Dowland's life and work. The first movement, "Lachrimae," is a reference to Dowland's famous collection of lute pieces, which includes a piece of the same name. The movement is characterized by its mournful, melancholic tone, which is typical of Dowland's music. The second movement, "Semper Dowland Semper Dolens," is named after another of Dowland's compositions. The movement is more lively than the first, with a faster tempo and more complex rhythms. However, it still retains a sense of sadness and longing, which is a hallmark of Dowland's music. The third movement, "Mr. Dowland's Midnight," is named after a poem by Dowland. The movement is slower and more contemplative than the previous two, with a focus on the lower registers of the lute. The piece is meant to evoke the quiet stillness of a midnight hour, and the sense of introspection that comes with it. The fourth movement, "The Frog Galliard," is named after one of Dowland's more playful compositions. The movement is faster and more upbeat than the previous three, with a lively, dance-like rhythm. However, it still retains a sense of melancholy, which is a hallmark of Dowland's music. The final movement, "Forlorn Hope Fancy," is named after one of Dowland's most famous compositions. The movement is slower and more introspective than the previous four, with a focus on the higher registers of the lute. The piece is meant to evoke a sense of loss and longing, which is a common theme in Dowland's music. Overall, Tombeau de Mr. D. Philips is a fitting tribute to John Dowland, and a testament to Toyohiko Satoh's skill as a composer and lutenist. The piece captures the essence of Dowland's music, while also showcasing Satoh's own unique style and sensibility.

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