Stormbreak

From Wind Repertory Project
Jim Casella

Jim Casella


Subtitle: For Percussion Octet (and Optional Wind Ensemble)


General Info

Year: 1995 / 2009
Duration: c. 3:30
Difficulty: IV (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: Tapspace Publications
Cost: Score and Parts (print) - $55.00


Instrumentation

Full Score
Percussion Ensemble (8 players), including:

  • Bass Drum
  • Bongos
  • Brake Drum
  • Chimes
  • China Cymbals
  • Concert Tom (4)
  • Conga
  • Cowbell
  • Finger Cymbals, mounted
  • Glockenspiel
  • Hi-Hat
  • Ocean Drum
  • Rainstick
  • Shakers
  • Snare Drum
  • Splash Cymbal
  • Suspended Cymbal
  • Tambourine
  • Timpani
  • Triangle
  • Vibra-slap
  • Wood Block
  • Xylophone

Wind Ensemble (optional)


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

Stormbreak was written as a sequel of sorts to Technology, another moderately simple piece for percussion octet that has since become quite popular for beginning-level percussion ensembles. Opening with nature-effect sounds, the storm breaks into a rhythmic “tip of the hat” to Technology on the rim of the snare drum. As rhythmic layers add in, the syncopated motif of Stormbreak becomes clear and continues to drive the piece throughout.

- Program Note by composer


Utilizing frequent repeats in most parts, the work offers a great way for young to intermediate players to become more comfortable with the concept of “grooving” in their own part while placing that groove within the mix of their fellow groove-playing compadres.

- Program Note from Roma Middle School Symphonic Winds concert program, 15 December 2016


Commissioned by the Lanier Middle School Percussion Ensemble and Symphonic Band (Hunter McRae, director). Premiered at the University of Georgia Middle School Festival 2007.

- Program Note from score


Media


State Ratings

  • Missouri: Percussion Ensemble B


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project


Works for Winds by This Composer


Resources

  • Casella, J. (2009). Stormbreak : For Percussion Octet (and Optional Wind Ensemble) [score]. Tapspace Publications: Portland, Ore.
  • Jim Casella website Accessed 9 December 2016
  • Perusal score.