John Dowland, Lute Works

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Renaissance music with "John Dowland, Lute Works," a captivating collection of solo lute compositions by the renowned English composer and lutenist, John Dowland. Released on December 26, 2022, this album is the second installment in a trilogy of recordings, meticulously interpreted by the talented Mike Fentross.

Spanning 19 tracks and 52 minutes, this album showcases Dowland's mastery of the lute, an instrument he is famously associated with. The compositional style of Dowland is known for its expressive melodies and intricate polyphony, and this album is no exception. Each piece, from the intricate "Fantasia 1 A" to the hauntingly beautiful "Lachrimae," offers a unique glimpse into the composer's genius.

The album features a diverse range of compositions, including galliards, fantasias, and pavans, each performed with exquisite precision and sensitivity. The lute used in this recording is a 9-course lute in G, tuned to A = 392 Hz, built in 2015 by Lars Jönsson after an original by Magno Tieffenbrucker. This instrument, combined with the skillful playing of Jonas Nordberg, brings Dowland's music to life in a way that is both authentic and engaging.

The album is part of a larger project that includes extensive notes on each recorded volume and the works performed, available in English, French, German, and Spanish. This makes it an excellent choice for both casual listeners and those with a deeper interest in Renaissance music.

Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply looking to explore the rich tapestry of Renaissance lute music, "John Dowland, Lute Works" is an album that promises to captivate and inspire.

John Dowland, the renowned English composer, lutenist, and singer, is celebrated for his evocative and melancholic music that has captivated audiences for centuries. Born in 1563, Dowland's life was dedicated to the "ingenuous profession of Musicke," a passion that led him to travel extensively across Europe and influence a wide array of musical styles. His compositions, which include both secular and sacred songs as well as instrumental pieces, are marked by a deep emotional resonance that continues to inspire musicians and listeners alike. Dowland's most famous works, such as "Come, heavy sleep," "Flow my tears," and "In darkness let me dwell," are testament to his mastery of the lute and his ability to convey profound human emotions through music. His instrumental music, particularly his lute compositions, has seen a significant revival in recent decades, becoming a staple in the repertoire of classical guitarists and lutenists. Dowland's legacy endures not just through his compositions but also through his influence on later composers, making him a pivotal figure in the Renaissance musical landscape.