Dance of the Jester

Dance of the Jester is a light and jovial piece for a young string Orchestra with optional percussion. The piece portrays the image of a courtly jester, dressed in a distinctive costume that is decorated with bright and colorful patterns. An eccentric motley patterned hat decorates his head. The melody of the piece represents the dancing Jester as he humorously dances around and entertains the guest of the court. As melodic ideas shift from the violins to the lower strings, we can see the jester performing a variety of acrobatic dances. Changes in timbre represent the Jester juggling and acting out stories and jokes to humor the crowd. The Jester continues to dance around the court as the melodic statement returns. The Jester finishes his dance and takes his bow as the piece ends.