What is an ayre in music?

An ayre is a form of light classical music that was popular in England during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Ayres were typically composed for voice and lute, and were often characterized by their simple melodies and dance-like rhythms. The word "ayre" is thought to be derived from the French word "air," which means "song."

Ayres were popular among both amateur and professional musicians, and were often performed in social settings such as balls and parties. Some of the most famous composers of ayres include John Dowland, Thomas Morley, and Francis Pilkington.

Here are some of the characteristics of ayres:

* Simple melodies: Ayres were typically characterized by their simple melodies, which were often easy to sing.

* Dance-like rhythms: Ayres were often written in dance-like rhythms, such as the pavane and the galliard.

* Vocal accompaniment: Ayres were typically composed for voice and lute, but could also be accompanied by other instruments, such as the viol and the keyboard.

* Secular lyrics: Ayres were typically written with secular lyrics, which means that they did not deal with religious subjects.

Ayres were an important part of the English musical landscape during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, and their influence can still be heard in classical music today.