Robert Dowland

Full biography Robert Dowland

Robert Dowland was an English lutenist and composer who was born around 1591 and died in 1641. He was the son of the well-known English Renaissance composer and lutenist, John Dowland. Robert was a talented musician who followed in his father's footsteps, composing music for the lute and publishing several collections of his works.

Robert Dowland worked at the court of King James I as a musician and his compositions were highly regarded by his contemporaries. In 1610, he published his first collection of lute music, titled "Varietie of Lute Lessons," which included pieces by his father and master lutenist, John Dowland.

In addition to his musical career, Robert Dowland was also a published author. He wrote the preface to his father's collection of songs, "A Pilgrimes Solace," and his own publication, "Musical Banquet," which was a collection of songs by various composers including his father. It is said that John Dowland may have had a guiding hand in the selection of songs in "Musical Banquet."

Overall, Robert Dowland was a talented musician and composer in his own right. While he may have lived in the shadow of his more famous father, his contributions to English Renaissance music are significant and worthy of recognition.