CSU musicology professor, K. Dawn Grapes, was recently interviewed by New York Times columnist
The article, How John Dowland Built a Music Career on Tearful Melancholy, explores Dowland's use of melancholy as both a musical and personal identity through his famous 'tear' motif, most notably in “Flow, My Tears” and the “Lachrimae” pavanes. Dowland cultivated a sorrowful artistic persona that resonated deeply with audiences.
“Lachrimae” seems to have been “the greatest hit of the late 16th century,” said Grapes in the article. She added, “He was savvy enough to understand that, if ‘Lachrimae’ was the piece of music that was being embraced, that maybe he was going to embrace that personality himself.”
According to the article, Dowland's influence has endured for more than 400 years, inspiring composers from Benjamin Britten to Thomas Adès and even modern pop producers. His haunting melodies and emotional focus continue to transcend time, connecting listeners across centuries.