Save the dates

Thursday 23rd July - Sunday 26th July 2026.

The Dowland 400 Festival is organised and funded by The UK Lute Society

A message from our organisers.

Dear Music Lovers,

John Dowland (1564-1626) the best Lute player and composer of his day, one of Englands 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 aims to celebrate all things Dowland. It will include amazing concerts and masterclasses by some of the world’s leading lutenists, 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. Bringing together lutenists from across the UK and Europe, we hope to produce an exciting and mesmerising programme of music for you to enjoy. 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. Details of the programme are here and printed versions will be available at the Festival.

Make sure you buy your tickets before they are sold out. This is sure to be a memorable event. Looking forward to seeing you there.

Best Wishes,

The Dowland 400 team