Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1597

Publication Date

:

1597

Average_duration

:

5:15

'Would my conceit that first enforced my woe' is a lute song composed by John Dowland, a prominent English Renaissance composer and lutenist. The song was likely composed in the early 17th century, during Dowland's later years. The song is a part of Dowland's collection of lute songs, which were typically composed for solo voice and lute accompaniment. 'Would my conceit' is a melancholic song that explores themes of unrequited love and heartbreak. The lyrics describe the speaker's longing for a lover who does not return their affections, and the pain that this unrequited love causes. The song is composed in a single movement, with a slow and mournful tempo. The lute accompaniment is sparse and delicate, providing a gentle backdrop for the singer's emotive vocals. The melody is characterized by its use of chromaticism, which adds a sense of tension and unease to the song. 'Would my conceit' was likely premiered in private performances, as was common for lute songs during the Renaissance period. However, the song has since become a popular piece in the classical music repertoire, and has been performed and recorded by numerous artists. Overall, 'Would my conceit that first enforced my woe' is a poignant and introspective piece that showcases Dowland's skill as a composer and his ability to evoke complex emotions through music.

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