“Enfranchisd in the ingenuous profession of Musicke”

Abstract In the decade following John Dowland’s return to England from France, the musician established his reputation as England’s most accomplished lutenist through a series of achievements, most especially a Bachelor of Music degree granted by Christ Church, Oxford, and possible participation in a number of entertainments produced for presentation before Queen Elizabeth I when she was on progress or during festivities surrounding annual Accession Day tilts. One such occasion, which celebrated retiring “Knight of the Crown” Sir Henry Lee, featured songs with lyrics that later appear in Dowland’s lute song anthologies. This chapter considers paths taken to obtain baccalaureate degrees in late-fifteenth-century England and the associated value gained for those who completed requirements for the honor. It also explores performances of Dowland’s music before the queen. The chapter ends with consideration of Dowland’s application for a position in Queen Elizabeth’s court after the death of lutenist John Johnson, a post that was never granted to him, in his recollection because of perceptions of his Catholic faith.