Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Average_duration

:

4:25

John Dowland was an English Renaissance composer, lutenist, and singer who lived from 1563 to 1626. He is known for his melancholic and introspective music, which often dealt with themes of love, loss, and sorrow. One of his most famous works is the song "Sorrow, come!", which was composed in the early 17th century. "Sorrow, come!" is a lute song, which means that it was written for voice and lute accompaniment. It is a four-part composition, with a repeating bass line that provides a foundation for the melody and harmonies. The song is written in the key of D minor, which is a common key for melancholic music. The lyrics of "Sorrow, come!" are in the form of a dialogue between the speaker and sorrow itself. The speaker invites sorrow to come and dwell with him, saying that he is ready to embrace the pain and sadness that it brings. He describes sorrow as a "sweet affliction" that will help him to forget his troubles and find peace. The song has three distinct movements, each with its own character and mood. The first movement is slow and mournful, with a simple melody that emphasizes the sadness of the lyrics. The second movement is faster and more lively, with a more complex melody and harmonies that suggest a sense of struggle or conflict. The third movement returns to the slow, mournful character of the first, but with a more elaborate and ornate melody that suggests a sense of acceptance and resignation. Overall, "Sorrow, come!" is a powerful and moving work that captures the essence of Dowland's style. Its themes of love, loss, and sorrow are universal and timeless, and its music is both beautiful and haunting. The song premiered in the early 17th century and has remained popular ever since, inspiring countless musicians and composers over the centuries.

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