Following the sprightly and soulful success of the HOP, SKIP and JUMP ensemble—which drew a delighted crowd of over 100 to Stanbridge Hall—Christ Church Concerts is pivoting from the 18th century back to the golden age of the Renaissance.

For our second performance of the 2026 season, we are proud to present Celebrating the Genius of John Dowland, featuring the return of the master lutenist, Jakob Lindberg.

A 400-Year Legacy

This year marks the 400th anniversary of the passing of Britain’s greatest Renaissance composer, John Dowland (1563–1626). A composer, singer, and lutenist, Dowland’s work defined the emotional landscape of his era. Lindberg’s stunning recital will capture that vast breadth of human experience, ranging from the bright, rhythmic energy of joyous galliards to the profound, haunting beauty of the Chromatic fantasies and melancholy pavans.

The Master of the Lute

Swedish-born Jakob Lindberg is widely considered the world’s leading interpreter of Dowland’s repertoire. His career, which began with a childhood passion for the Beatles before evolving into a mastery of classical and period instruments, has seen him become one of the most prolific performers in the field.

Lindberg was the first lutenist to record Dowland’s complete solo works for BIS, a pioneering achievement that remains a benchmark four decades later. Currently a professor at the Royal College of Music in London, Lindberg’s live performances are celebrated globally, from Beijing to San Francisco, for their technical brilliance and emotional depth.

Local Connections and Artistic Curation

We owe a debt of gratitude to celebrated Australian lutenist Rosemary Hodgson, whose curation has brought Jakob back to Australian shores and specifically to Daylesford for this exclusive second appearance.

Hodgson, who founded the Melbourne International Lute Festival in 2024, continues to lead the festival this year, where Lindberg will also be conducting specialized masterclasses and workshops for the next generation of musicians.

Event Details & Bookings

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear a world master perform in the intimate setting of our local concert series.

Photos by Irene McGinnigle & Frank Page