The Perfect Fool (Ballet Music) - Gustav Holst

'The Perfect Fool' is a comic opera in one act with music and libretto by Gustav Holst which was premiered in 1923. The opera was not a success, and audiences found the story confusing. Although the opera did receive a live BBC broadcast a year after its premiere, revivals of the work have been rare. However, the introductory ballet music is much more often performed, separately as a suite. This ballet music falls into the following sections: 'Invocation' (Andante), 'Dance of Spirits of Earth' (Moderato - Andante), 'Dance of Spirits of Water' (Allegro) and 'Dance of Spirits of Fire' (Allegro moderato - Andante). The ballet music from 'The Perfect Fool' has become a concert favourite. American arranger Douglas McLain transcribed the ballet for Symphonic Band.