Merck's Tattoo for solo riq
$10
$7.50 (Download)
ORDER
via OMRadio.com

Riq solo loosely based on funk-style drumset rhythms with brief references to the bell pattern used in the West African Ewe dance "Gahu." The piece explores "cabaret" style and "classical" style (soft position), along with various jingle effects. Great piece for the developing riq-ist.

Merck’s Tattoo
Advanced
B. Michael Williams
Self published
Written for one of his students, “Merck’s Tattoo” by B. Michael Williams is a four minute riq (tambourine) solo. The author says the piece is “loosely based on funk-style drumset rhythms, with brief references to the bell pattern used in the West African Ewe dance ‘Gahu’.” It has a funky, almost hip-hop, feel to it. Using nine different sounds/techniques (e.g., doum, slap, tak, shakes, flams), the player must have a solid handle on riq technique and be able to execute sixteenth-note accent passages and thirty-second-note finger strokes. There is no suggested tempo, so players have the option to perform this one at a comfortable tempo.
Reviewed by: Terry O’Mahoney, Percussive Notes
Review originally published: June 2009