John Dowland, a Renaissance composer, was likely born in London in 1563, though an Irish origin has also been suggested.
Composer Biography
Dowland converted to Catholicism in 1580 while in the service of Sir Henry Cobham, Queen Elizabeth's ambassador to France.
Composer Biography
After years of seeking a position, Dowland finally became one of the King's lutenists in October 1612, serving until his death in 1626.
Compositional Technique
Dowland's instrumental pieces, including pavans, galliards, and almains, enjoyed wide popularity and often paired the stately pavan with the livelier galliard, foreshadowing the instrumental dance suite.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Despite his musical reputation for melancholy, Dowland himself was described as a sociable and cheerful man.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Dowland's famous work, Lachrimae, and the punning title of one of his pavans, Semper Dowland semper dolens (Ever Dowland ever doleful), cemented his popular image as a master of musical melancholy.
Composer Biography
Dowland attributed his repeated failure to secure a court appointment in England to his Catholic religion.
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