Fretwork: Celebrating John Dowland at 400

An evening celebrating the work of John Dowland, one of England’s greatest composers.

Join us for a moving and memorable evening honouring John Dowland, one of England’s greatest musical minds, 400 years after his passing in 1626. Known for his expressive melodies and masterful writing for the lute and viols, Dowland’s music continues to resonate with audiences today.

Fretwork, the world’s foremost ensemble of viol players, perform highlights from Dowland’s most famous collection, ‘Lachrimae’ (1604). Before a lively set of dances, many based on his songs, Dowland takes listeners on a deep, emotional journey inspired by his famous piece, ‘Flow my teares’. He takes the listener on a journey from sorrow to joy, darkness to light.

As Dowland himself wrote: ‘Pleasant are the tears which music weeps… not always shed in sorrow, but sometimes in joy and gladness.’

The evening also features Adrian Williams’ ‘Teares to Dreams’, a modern tribute to Dowland’s legacy. Written in 2004, this contemporary piece uses the same instruments to reflect on Dowland’s themes, a poignant blend of old and new.