Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Pavane

Compose Date

:

1600

Average_duration

:

4:49

"Semper Dowland semper dolens" (Always Dowland, always mourning) is a collection of seven lute pieces composed by John Dowland, an English Renaissance composer and lutenist. The collection was published in 1604 and is considered one of Dowland's most famous works. The premiere of "Semper Dowland semper dolens" is not recorded, but it is believed to have been performed by Dowland himself, who was known for his virtuosic lute playing. The collection consists of seven movements, each with its own unique character and mood. The first movement, "Semper Dowland semper dolens," is a melancholic pavane that sets the tone for the entire collection. The second movement, "Sir Henry Umpton's Funeral," is a mournful piece that Dowland composed in memory of his patron, Sir Henry Umpton. The third movement, "M. Bucton's Galliard," is a lively dance that provides a contrast to the somber mood of the previous two movements. The fourth movement, "Mrs. Vaux's Jig," is a playful and upbeat piece that showcases Dowland's skill as a lutenist. The fifth movement, "Semper Dowland semper dolens," is a variation of the first movement, but with a more complex and intricate melody. The sixth movement, "The Earl of Essex Galliard," is a stately dance that Dowland composed in honor of Robert Devereux, the Earl of Essex. The final movement, "Can she excuse my wrongs," is a melancholic song that Dowland wrote for his patron, Sir Henry Lee. The song is notable for its use of chromaticism and its complex harmonies, which were unusual for the time. Overall, "Semper Dowland semper dolens" is characterized by its melancholic and introspective mood, which reflects Dowland's own struggles with depression and melancholy. The collection is also notable for its use of complex harmonies and intricate melodies, which were ahead of their time and influenced later composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach.

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