Information Workshop

Thursday 23d July, Location: Martinau Hall

• 13.00 -16.00 Public Workshop, Led by Ciska Mertens
• 15.30-16.00 Presentation of music rehearsed in the Workshop
• 17.00- 17.30 A short free concert of music prepared by a visiting Ensemble for the Netherlands.

The Dowland 400 Festival invites music lovers to explore the rich world of John Dowland through two workshops in Martinau hall. Lutenist Ciska Mertens and singer‑conductor Eveline Juten lead a hands‑on workshop on Dutch adaptations of Dowland’s lute songs, revealing how his melodies travelled across Europe. Participants will play and sing historical Dutch texts set to Dowland’s famous tunes—songs tied to the Eighty Years’ War, religious life, political upheaval, and everyday humour.

The workshop includes music by Valerius, Camphuysen, Starter, and Gastoldi, with parts available for lutes in various tunings, singers, gambas, and other instruments. All music, lyrics, and practice recordings can be downloaded in advance via the festival website.

A short showcase performance at 15:30 will present the results of the workshop.

• Background information PDF: Download practical info
• Music & materials: Download scores and MP3s

Later that afternoon, the Dutch Lute Society Ensemble offers a free informal concert featuring a 10‑piece lute band performing Dowland and his contemporaries

These sessions are designed for players of all abilities, from beginners to seasoned ensemble musicians. Join us for a day of learning, playing, and celebrating Dowland’s enduring legacy.