John Dowland (1563 – 1626), a contemporary of both William Shakespeare and Queen Elizabeth I, was recognized as one of the greatest musicians of his time, writing songs, ensemble music and solos for the lute.

Early music has long been part of the classic guitar repertoire and more recently, it has been adopted with enthusiasm by ukulele players. This book presents sixteen of Dowland's most beautiful lute songs that can be performed by ukulele players, with or without a vocalist.

Two versions of each song – one easier and another more advanced—are offered in both standard notation and tablature for soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles in re-entrant (gCEA) tuning. Various vocal ensemble renditions of the songs, as well as the author’s video performances of each solo arrangement are available online. For vocalists and their audiences, and for all musicians and songwriters to fully connect with the emotion of the songs, Dowland’s sublime lyrics are also included.

Introduction

Awake, Sweet Love, Thou Art Return’d

Can She Excuse My Wrongs?

Come Again!

Come Away, Come Sweet Love

Come Heavy Sleep

Fine Knacks for Ladies

Flow My Tears

Flow Not So Fast, Ye Fountains

Go Crystal Tears

His Golden Locks

I Saw My Lady Weep

If My Complaints Could Passions Move

Now, O Now, I Needs Must Part

Shall I Sue?

Sweet, Stay Awhile

Unquiet Thoughts

About the Author