Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Lute Song

Compose Date

:

1612

Publication Date

:

1612

Average_duration

:

5:43

"From silent night, true register of moans" 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 features Dowland's signature melancholic style. The lyrics describe the pain and sorrow of unrequited love, with the speaker lamenting the loss of his beloved. The opening lines set the tone for the rest of the song: "From silent night, true register of moans, / From saddest soul, with griefs in greatest groans." The melody is haunting and plaintive, with a slow and mournful tempo. The lute accompaniment is sparse and delicate, allowing the voice to take center stage. The song is written in the key of D minor, which adds to the melancholic mood. One of the most notable characteristics of Dowland's music is his use of word painting, which is evident in "From silent night." For example, the line "My heart, the target of thy cruel scorn" is set to a descending melody, which emphasizes the speaker's sense of defeat and despair. Overall, "From silent night, true register of moans" is a beautiful and poignant example of Dowland's mastery of the lute song genre. Its haunting melody and melancholic lyrics continue to resonate with audiences today.

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