The word "repique" is spelled with an "e" after the "q" because it comes from Portuguese, which uses this spelling convention for certain words. In IPA phonetic transcription, "repique" is pronounced as /ɾɛˈpi.ki/, with stress on the second syllable. This word refers to a percussion instrument commonly used in Latin American music, and is played by striking the drumhead with both hands in a rapid alternating fashion. The spelling of "repique" may be unfamiliar to English speakers, but it is important to use the correct spelling to maintain accuracy in written communication.
Repique is a term used in the domain of music, specifically in the context of percussion instruments. It refers to a technique employed in certain Latin American and African musical genres, in which a rhythmic pattern is played on a drum or other percussion instrument. The term "repique" originated from Spanish and Portuguese, but it is also recognized in English-speaking regions due to the global influence of these musical styles.
Typically, repique involves a series of rapid strokes or rolls performed with the drumsticks or hands on the surface of the percussive instrument. These strokes are executed with great speed and consistency, creating a distinct and vibrant rhythmic texture. Repique is often utilized as a virtuosic technique, showcasing the skill and dexterity of the performer.
In the Afro-Brazilian music and dance style known as samba, repique is an integral component of the percussion section, particularly in the ensemble known as the bateria. It is commonly played on the repinique, a double-headed drum played with a stick in one hand and the free hand for tone variation. Similarly, in Cuban music, the repique is often played on the timbales, a pair of shallow drums, and can be used to signal changes in the music and provide accents within the ensemble.
Overall, repique represents a dynamic and intricate method within percussion, characterized by rapid and precise strokes performed on a drum or other percussion instrument. It adds energy, drive, and complexity to musical compositions and often serves as a prominent feature in various cultural and rhythmic traditions.
The word "repique" has its origins in the French language. It is derived from the verb "répiquer", which means "to strike again" or "to tap again". This verb is a combination of the prefix "re-" (indicating repetition or intensity) and the verb "piquer" (meaning "to prick" or "to strike"). In the context of music, "repique" refers to a drum or percussion technique wherein a rhythmic striking motion is repeated or intensified. This term has become particularly associated with Brazilian and Afro-Cuban music, where the repique technique is commonly used in samba, bossa nova, and other rhythmic styles.