Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Lute Song

Compose Date

:

before 1600

Publication Date

:

1600

Average_duration

:

2:47

John Dowland's "A Shepherd in a Shade" is a lute song that was composed in the late 16th century. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written sometime between 1590 and 1600. The song was first published in Dowland's collection of lute songs, "The First Booke of Songes or Ayres," which was printed in London in 1597. The song is written in a simple, strophic form, with each verse consisting of four lines. The melody is accompanied by a lute, which provides a delicate and intricate counterpoint to the vocal line. The song is in the key of G major and has a gentle, pastoral character that reflects the theme of the lyrics. The lyrics of "A Shepherd in a Shade" describe a shepherd who is resting in the shade of a tree, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the countryside. The shepherd reflects on the transience of life and the inevitability of death, but finds comfort in the knowledge that his soul will live on after his body has passed away. The song is divided into two movements, with the first movement consisting of the first two verses and the second movement consisting of the final two verses. The first movement is characterized by a gentle, flowing melody that evokes the peacefulness of the shepherd's surroundings. The second movement is more introspective, with a slower tempo and a more contemplative melody that reflects the shepherd's thoughts on mortality. Overall, "A Shepherd in a Shade" is a beautiful and poignant example of Dowland's skill as a composer of lute songs. Its simple yet elegant melody and thoughtful lyrics make it a timeless piece of music that continues to be enjoyed by audiences today.

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