Dowland 400 Festival

John Dowland (1564-1626), the best lute player and composer of his day, one of England’s finest ever chamber music and song composers, and the first English singer-songwriter in the modern sense, whose music is still played by every classical guitarist, died 400 years ago this year. We thought this would be the ideal time to come together and celebrate his artistry and legacy.

Our four-day festival celebrating his music will include amazing concerts and masterclasses by some of the world’s leading lutenists, with singers and other musicians; lectures and talks about Dowland’s life; and so much more – even a chance for a lesson with a leading player or to have a first go on a lute.

You will be able to spend the festival listening, looking, playing, learning and soaking up all the Dowland events we have planned in what we hope is a diverse, informative & entertaining programme – and in the historic heart of Norwich, England's second city in Elizabethan days, there's plenty more for you or your significant other to see and do between your chosen events.