Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1603

Publication Date

:

1603

Average_duration

:

3:12

"Behold a wonder here" 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, although the exact date is unknown. It was first published in Dowland's collection of lute songs, "A Pilgrimes Solace," which was printed in 1612. The song is in three movements, with the first and third being in a lively triple meter and the second in a slower duple meter. The lyrics describe a woman who is both beautiful and virtuous, and the singer marvels at her perfection. The melody is characterized by Dowland's signature use of chromaticism and dissonance, which creates a sense of tension and yearning. One of the most notable features of "Behold a wonder here" is its use of word painting. Dowland's music closely follows the meaning of the lyrics, with ascending and descending melodic lines representing the woman's beauty and virtue, respectively. The use of word painting was a common technique in Renaissance music, and Dowland was particularly skilled at using it to create emotional depth and complexity in his compositions. Overall, "Behold a wonder here" is a beautiful example of Dowland's skill as a composer and lutenist. Its intricate melody and use of word painting make it a standout piece in the Renaissance repertoire, and it continues to be performed and admired by musicians and audiences today.

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