Composer

:

John Dowland

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Pavane

Compose Date

:

1604

Publication Date

:

1604

Average_duration

:

5:13

"Semper Dowland semper dolens" is a collection of seven lute pieces composed by John Dowland, a prominent English Renaissance composer and lutenist. The title translates to "Always Dowland, always mourning" and reflects the melancholic and introspective nature of the music. The collection was composed in 1603 and was first published in London the same year. It was dedicated to Dowland's patron, Sir Henry Lee, and was intended for solo lute performance. The pieces are written in various keys and tunings, showcasing Dowland's mastery of the instrument. The seven movements of "Semper Dowland semper dolens" are: 1. "Semper Dowland, semper dolens" - a pensive and introspective piece in the key of D minor, featuring a recurring descending motif. 2. "Sir John Smith, his Almain" - a lively dance in the key of G major, with intricate fingerwork and a playful melody. 3. "The Earl of Essex, his Galliard" - a stately dance in the key of D major, with a regal and dignified melody. 4. "Mrs. Vaux's Gigge" - a lively dance in the key of G major, with a sprightly and upbeat melody. 5. "Sir Henry Umpton's Funeral" - a mournful and somber piece in the key of D minor, with a slow and mournful melody. 6. "M. Bucton's Galliard" - a lively dance in the key of G major, with a complex and intricate melody. 7. "Lachrimae" - the most famous piece in the collection, "Lachrimae" is a series of variations on a melancholic melody, with each variation becoming increasingly complex and ornate. The characteristics of "Semper Dowland semper dolens" are its introspective and melancholic nature, as well as Dowland's virtuosic fingerwork and mastery of the lute. The collection showcases Dowland's ability to evoke a range of emotions through his music, from the mournful "Semper Dowland, semper dolens" to the lively "Sir John Smith, his Almain." "Lachrimae" is a particularly notable piece, with its intricate variations and haunting melody becoming one of Dowland's most famous compositions.

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