Composed for Double Bass 2000, Dowland Doubles consists of a theme and variations and is based on a song by the English lutenist-composer John Dowland (1563-1626). Each variation has its own character and style, with a supportive, colourful and independent accompaniment, contrasting the lively and engaging lyrical solo line. The style is modern but tonal, accessible and immediate, and the edition includes two solo parts for both intermediate and advanced level.

The edition includes piano accompaniments for both solo and orchestral tunings.
“Dowland Doubles in based on the poignant song Tears (anon. 16th-century) by the English composer John Dowland and refers to the term Doubles that later became known as Variations. The percipient observer will detect, in the second variation, a reference to my favourite Bach chorale Es ist genug where I have united Dowland’s moving melodic strands with Bach’s harmonic subtlety in a synthesis which reveals their spiritual affinity.

My aim in the remaining variations has been to provide a balanced participation between the instruments to afford performers of both parts equal fulfilment.” [Peter Lamb, 2002]

Dowland Doubles was premiered on 5 April 2002 by Jacob Head (double bass) and Mark Cracknell (piano) at Downe House School (Newbury, Berkshire, UK), as part of Bass-Fest 2002.

Weep you no more, sad fountains;
What need you flow so fast?
Look how the snowy mountains
Heaven’s sun doth gently waste.
But my sun’s heavenly eyes
View not your weeping,
That now lie sleeping
Softly, now softly lies
Sleeping.
Sleep is a reconciling,
A rest that peace begets.
Doth not the sun rise smiling
When fair at even he sets?
Rest you then, rest, sad eyes,
Melt not in weeping
While she lies sleeping
Softly, now softly lies
Sleeping.
[Anon. 16th-century]