LACHRIMAE ANTIQUAE

Lachrimae antiquae (Old Tears) is the first pavan from Lachrimae, or Seaven Teares by the English Renaissance composer John Dowland (1563–1626). Composed in 1596 it was originally scored for five viols/violins and lute. It is dedicated to Anne of Denmark, wife of Christian IV of Denmark who employed Dowland as a lutenist. Lachrimae antiquae, and indeed all seven pavans in the collection, are variations on Dowland’s already well-known theme, the Lachrimae pavan. The theme’s popularity was further enhanced when Dowland later reworked it and added lyrics, to become the song 'Flow my tears'. Both the song and the instrumental version Lachrimae antiquae were incredibly popular in the 17th century and sheet music of the pieces were widely distributed across Europe.

Lachrimae antiquae begins with a falling tear motif, starting on an A and descending in step to an E. Falling motifs like this symbolise grief and were in common usage in Elizabethan music. Throughout, the five lines interweave closely together, creating intense and striking harmonies.

Delivery Details

We endeavour to dispatch all orders which are in stock on the day the order has been placed. If you need delivery by a certain time please state this clearly on your order and we will do our best to oblige.

For Royal Mail Special Delivery, Airmail (Signed For) and Courier shipments, a signature may be required upon delivery to your address. You are responsible for your order once the package arrives at the supplied delivery address. We cannot be held responsible if the package(s) goes missing once delivered. If any goods are received faulty or damaged on receipt, you must notify us within 7 days of receiving them (via email or telephone) quoting your order reference. We cannot be held responsible for goods that do not arrive with the customer due to errors made by the customer when entering their address details. Please ensure that you check all your details before confirming your order. For more information on deliveries, please click here.