A 'catch' is a musical epigram a neat and witty contrivance from which in performance some point of humour or hidden meaning emerges. This extensive collection of catches offers 224 fine examples from a catch club's repertory a selection founded on the actual performance and enjoymant of the catches concerned. Many are rarities and are published here for the first time. Major composers - Purcell Blow Wise Hilton and others - are well represented by a choice selection of their best catches.Includes full introduction composer biographies notes on the catches and appedices.