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Title	Catapult!  NEW!
Article no.	4123475
Category	Concert/wind/brass band
Subcategory	Concert music
Instrumentation	Ha (concert/wind band); YB (young band)
Format	PrtStm (full score and parts)
Country of publication	USA (us)
Publisher *	C.L. Barnhouse Company
Publisher's article no. *	BA 011-4770-00
Series title	Command Series
Year of publication	2019
Price	click here
Composer	Huckeby, Ed
Difficulty level	2+
Duration	3:09
Additional info/contents	The continuous rhythmic energy and drive of “Catapult!” is infectious! Using dramatically contrasting syncopated melodic lines and ultra-legato contemporary harmonic phrases, the composer creates a colorful palette of sound which is both incredibly appealing and uniquely mysterious. At mid-point, the effect of the catapult is felt through rather dissonant descending chords, leading to an exciting resolution and conclusion in a new key. (© Barnhouse Music)
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Programme notes *: Catapult! by Ed Huckeby: Rhythmic Drive and Distinct Contrasts – An Energetic Work for Younger Ensembles Ed Huckeby’s *Catapult!* is composed for concert bands at a difficulty level of 2.5. It is designed for intermediate-level concert bands and youth ensembles that already possess foundational ensemble experience. The specified tempo—*Allegro con vivo*, at approximately 152 beats per minute—defines the lively character of the piece. A striking percussion accompaniment, syncopated melodic lines, and contrasting *legato* (slurred) passages shape the musical progression. The title points to a clear programmatic concept: a musical arc of tension builds toward the "launch" of the "catapult" motion, followed by a downward-moving passage. This interpretation is reinforced later in the piece by dissonant, descending chords. Throughout, the composition focuses on immediate impact, while still incorporating a variety of timbres and dynamic nuances. • Structure and Musical Progression The introduction establishes the rhythmic drive. For these opening measures, the score explicitly highlights several rehearsal goals: dynamic contrasts, cohesive ensemble playing, and a well-balanced sound, particularly in relation to the percussion section. As the piece unfolds, recurring rhythmic figures sustain the momentum. The syncopations—accents that shift away from the expected, steady beats—must be articulated precisely and in unison. At measure 25, a new theme emerges in the trumpets, giving the established rhythmic momentum a distinct melodic profile. From measure 41 onward, the sonic character shifts: while the percussion continues its rhythmic activity, the wind instruments are called upon to play in a smooth, *legato* style. Certain sections—notably in measures 47, 48, and 55—introduce rhythmic contrasts. The climax is prepared in terms of dramatic structure. In measures 73 and 75, a striking intensification leads to a *forte*. This is followed, in measures 77 and 78, by descending, dissonant chords that musically trace the titular launch and the subsequent trajectory. At measure 81, the main theme returns in a new key. Between measures 89 and 105, *legato* (slurred) playing is once again given particular emphasis. Toward the end, the score calls for strong dynamic contrasts and a precise conclusion featuring short, accented eighth notes. • Instrumentation and Sonic Character The ensemble includes standard woodwinds—flutes, oboes, clarinets, bassoons, and saxophones—along with trumpets, horns, trombones, baritones, and tuba. Additionally, there is an extensive percussion section comprising xylophone, timpani, snare drum, bass drum, cymbals, shaker, cowbell, and concert drums. The instrumentation allows for both a compact, rhythmically cohesive overall effect and clearly distinguishable layers of sound. The percussion section contributes significantly to the forward momentum. However, it must remain balanced with the wind instruments so that melodic lines and rhythmic details remain audible. The alternation between crisp, precise articulation and *legato* playing creates an effective contrast: passages with a driving, motoric quality are followed by more open, fluid textures. The dissonances preceding the return of the main theme heighten the tension, before the new key provides an audible resolution. • Technical Requirements and Pedagogical Value A grading of 2.5 indicates a work intended for advanced beginner ensembles or intermediate-level orchestras. The focus is less on a consistently high level of technical difficulty and more on the interplay of various requirements—such as maintaining a steady tempo, executing clear syncopations, ensuring precise entrances, and managing controlled dynamics. Furthermore, wind players must be able to alternate between distinct articulation and a highly legato style. For the percussion section, the piece demands the coordination of multiple parts, as well as a nuanced approach to pulse and accents. In this way, *Catapult!* offers specific focal points for rehearsal. Conductors can work systematically on rhythmic accuracy, intonation within dissonant chords, dynamic shading, and the balancing of different instrument sections. The shifting roles among the instrument groups also encourage musicians to listen to one another: accompaniment figures, melodic lines, and percussion cues must be carefully aligned so that the musical contrasts emerge clearly. • Classification and Recommendation Compared to other works of intermediate difficulty for concert band, *Catapult!* places a special emphasis on rhythmic drive, percussive energy, and the interplay between syncopated movement and sustained, legato textures. Its structure is clear and logical, building toward a distinct and effective climax. While it is difficult to definitively link the piece to any specific existing compositions based solely on the score, it is best described as an impactful, contemporary work designed for youth concert bands. • The composition is suitable for ensembles looking for a lively concert piece with clear rehearsal goals, provided the instrumentation is sufficiently balanced and the percussion can be controlled safely. The piece is particularly convincing when the rhythmic precision doesn't come at the expense of the melodic lines and the legato sections are designed as a distinct contrast. Text: © musicainfo.net (KI) Quellen/Sources: Barnhouse Music: Catapult!

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	Catapult! (concert/wind band; young band), full score and parts
	Catapult! (concert/wind band; young band), full score
	Catapult! (concert/wind band; young band), full score, large
	Catalyst, audio CD

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