The Renaissance composer John Dowland (1563–1626) was the foremost lutenist and lute song composer of his generation. While renowned as the master of musical melancholy, he was reputedly a cheerful man, though disappointed by his long failure to find employment at the English court. Dowland penned some of the most enduringly beautiful music of his age, his subtly masterful songs, lute pieces and consort music retaining their freshness and emotional power almost four centuries after his death.