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Hedgehog

(Tune signal: spiky fingers on the head)

Notes:

This tune is played over 8 beats rather than 4, so counting in of breaks etc is different. It is played at quite a fast tempo.

The Hedgehog break can be changed to anything you want – for example “No War”. Tweak the signals to fit as well, especially if you’re using more than one call. We sometimes play an alcoholic versions with the calls “Lager” (signal: drinking a pint), “Vodka” (signal: making a ‘v’ with fingers) and “Tequila” (needs to be shouted quickly; signal: ‘T’ made with hands).

The Repenique part has notes played on the rim of the drum as well as the skin. It can be a little difficult to get the hang of, but stick with it.

Start with just the agogos playing their pattern then bring in the other instruments, starting with the snares.

Break 1 is played just by the surdos, whilst everyone else continues playing the groove pattern. Try continuing playing this break until a Hedgehog break or similar is called.

Both the Hedgehog call and Break 1 are stretched over 8 beats but notes/ shouts are only in the last 2 or 4 notes. It is important to count from the start of the 8 beats to get the timing right.

It is easier to play the low surdo pattern if you play the silent hits (marked "-" on the notation) with your hand. Just be careful not to play them too loudly (they're just to keep time).

Finish on a shouting call.

Have fun!

[Printable Version]

Groove

x = hit  

- = silent hit with hand resting on skin

s = note played of side of repenique

l = low agogo bell
h = high agogo bell
. = ghost note (quiet snare note)

 Breaks

Break 1

(Signal: 1 finger held up)

 Played by Surdos only - start counting from ">"

Hedgehog call

(Signal: Hedgehog call sign)

Start counting from ">"

This call can be changed to anything you want though 2 syllables works the best. We've used "No War" (sign: make a "W" with the hands), "vodka" (sign: hold up 2 finders in a "V" sign"), "tequila" (sign: make a "T" with the hands), "lager" (sign: drinking a pint), "compost" (sign: making a "C" shape with one hand) or "F*ck Bush" (sign: make a hole with one hand and insert finger of other hand into it).

[Printable Version]