John Dowland
English Renaissance composer of melancholy lute songs and consort music.
John Dowland (c. He is best known today for his melancholy songs such as 'Flow my tears', 'Come again', and 'In darkness let me dwell'. His instrumental music has undergone a major revival, and with the 20th century's early music revival, has been a continuing source of repertoire for lutenists and classical guitarists.
- field
- Composer, lutenist, singer
- nationality
- English
- known_for
- Melancholy lute songs and instrumental works such as 'Flow my tears' and 'Lachrimae'
Lore & Background
Very little is known of Dowland's early life, but it is generally thought he was born in London. Irish historian W. H. Grattan Flood claimed that he was born in Dalkey, near Dublin, but no corroborating evidence has been found either for that or for Thomas Fuller's claim that he was born in Westminster. One piece of evidence points to Dublin as his place of origin: he dedicated the song 'From Silent Night' to 'my loving countryman Mr. John Forster the younger, merchant of Dublin in Ireland'. He met several Roman Catholics at this time, and may have privately converted to their faith. Bac. from Christ Church, Oxford. He claimed his religion led to his not being offered a post at Elizabeth I's Protestant court, but his conversion was not publicised, and being Catholic did not prevent some other important musicians (such as William Byrd) from a court career.
Reader's Guide
John Dowland's significance lies in his pioneering role in developing the English lute song and his profound influence on the early music revival of the 20th century. His instrumental work 'Lachrimae, or Seaven Teares' became one of the best known consort collections of his time, and his pavane 'Lachrymae antiquae' was widely arranged by later composers. Dowland's music often displays a melancholia rare in music at that time, and he pioneered it together with Anthony Holborne. His consort piece 'Semper Dowland, semper dolens' (always Dowland, always doleful) sums up much of his work. The melancholic lyrics and music have often been described as attempts to develop an 'artistic persona', but many of his personal complaints and bitter comments suggest the melancholy came from his own personality and frustration. His works survive in many manuscripts, and his numbering system (P numbers) was created by Diana Poulton.
Did You Know?
- Dowland's salary at the Danish court was 500 daler a year, making him one of the highest-paid servants of the court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is John Dowland?
John Dowland was an English Renaissance-era musician who worked as a composer, singer, and lutenist. He is widely regarded as one of the finest lute songwriters of his period.
What are John Dowland's most famous compositions?
His best-known pieces include the lute songs 'Flow my tears,' 'Come again,' and 'In darkness let me dwell,' along with the instrumental work 'Lachrimae.' These melancholy pieces remain staples of the lute and classical guitar repertoire.
What instrument is John Dowland most associated with?
The lute is Dowland's signature instrument, and he was celebrated in his own time as a master player of it. His instrumental lute music has enjoyed a major resurgence since the 20th-century early music movement.
Why is John Dowland still important to musicians today?
Thanks to the early music revival, his lute and consort works have become go-to material for lutenists and classical guitarists alike. His distinctive melancholy style continues to resonate with both performers and audiences.
More in Renaissance And Baroque Masters 1-22
Spotted an error? Know more?
This is a living reference — every entry is fact-audited, and reader corrections feed straight into our audit queue. Suggest an edit · See this site's audit record