Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Part Song

Compose Date

:

1612

Publication Date

:

1612

Average_duration

:

5:25

"Tell me, true Love" 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 time as a court musician for King James I. The song is a part of Dowland's collection of lute songs, which were popular during the Renaissance period. It is a melancholic love song, with lyrics that express the speaker's longing for true love and the pain of unrequited love. The song is written in the key of G minor and has a slow, mournful tempo. "Tell me, true Love" is composed of two verses, each with a repeating chorus. The first verse begins with the speaker asking true love to reveal itself to him, and expressing his desire to be free from the pain of unrequited love. The chorus repeats the phrase "Tell me, true Love, where shall I seek thy being?" The second verse continues the theme of longing for true love, with the speaker asking for guidance in finding it. The chorus repeats the phrase "Tell me, true Love, where shall I find thy dwelling?" The song is notable for its use of intricate lute accompaniment, which complements the mournful melody of the vocal line. Dowland was known for his skill as a lutenist, and his lute songs are considered some of the finest examples of the genre. "Tell me, true Love" was likely performed at courtly gatherings and other social events during Dowland's time. Today, it remains a popular piece in the repertoire of classical vocalists and lutenists, and is often performed in recitals and concerts. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Dowland's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the emotions of his listeners through his music.

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