John Dowland is probably the most famous and prolific of the renaissance composers. This, his most famous work, was written in 1596. Originally for solo lute, this arrangement is for string quintet, playable either as a chamber ensemble or string orchestra. The instrumentation is for two violins, one or two violas and one or two celli. The tenor part can be played on either viola or cello. The harmonies are rich, and contrapuntal movement is integral to this piece. Vary your dynamics and phrasing when the verses repeat to get the most out of this expressive piece.