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.