Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1612

Publication Date

:

1612

Average_duration

:

3:11

"When the poor cripple" 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 composed in a single movement and is written for voice and lute. It is a melancholic piece that tells the story of a poor cripple who is begging for alms. The lyrics describe the cripple's physical deformities and his desperate plea for help. The song is notable for its use of vivid imagery and emotive language, which effectively convey the cripple's suffering and despair. Musically, "When the poor cripple" is characterized by its simple, yet expressive melody and its use of chromaticism. The lute accompaniment is sparse and understated, allowing the vocal line to take center stage. The song is also notable for its use of dissonance, which adds to its melancholic and somber tone. Overall, "When the poor cripple" is a poignant and moving piece that showcases Dowland's skill as a composer and his ability to evoke powerful emotions through music. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to resonate with audiences across the centuries.

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