Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Part Song

Compose Date

:

1597

Publication Date

:

1597

Average_duration

:

4:31

"All ye whom love or fortune hath betrayed" 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 tenure as a lutenist in the court of King James I. The song is a melancholic reflection on the pain of unrequited love and the betrayal of fortune. It is composed in the key of G minor and features a slow, mournful tempo. The song is divided into three distinct movements, each with its own unique character and mood. The first movement is marked by a slow, mournful melody that is played on the lute. The lyrics describe the pain of unrequited love and the sense of betrayal that comes with it. The second movement is more upbeat and features a faster tempo. The lyrics describe the fickleness of fortune and the way it can turn against us at any moment. The final movement returns to the slow, mournful melody of the first movement. The lyrics describe the pain of loss and the sense of emptiness that comes with it. The song ends on a somber note, with the final line "All ye whom love or fortune hath betrayed, be comforted, for there is no end to grief." Overall, "All ye whom love or fortune hath betrayed" is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Dowland's skill as a composer and lutenist. Its melancholic tone and haunting melody have made it a popular piece among Renaissance music enthusiasts and performers.

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