A Mortal Muse

In 1606, English composer and lutenist John Danyel dedicated his only songbook to a wildly unconventional muse – his brilliant young student. Songs to Anne Greene are a treasure of Jacobean art, telling an unorthodox love story with uncommon brilliance, humanity, and wry wit.

Lute-song specialists Dowland's Foundry will create a colourful and dramatic performance in the stunning setting of Magdalen College, interlacing words by Ovid, Samuel Daniel and William Shakespeare with music by Danyel, John Dowland and William Byrd.

Dowland’s Foundry includes soprano Gwendolen Martin, alto Clemmie Franks, tenor Daniel Thomson, bass Timothy Dickinson and lutenist Sam Brown. They will be joined by renowned actor Will Keen, fresh from his award-winning role as Vladimir Putin in ‘Patriots,’ who will narrate the evening.