Chapter 3: Discussing future plans

Their lives having changed earlier in the day, the group starts reminiscing about the past and venting their still uncertain plans for the future when they will be released from school in a few months’ time. 

The last days at school are days of uncertainty about the future characterized by a complex mix of repression, resistance, and the anticipation of change. 

But that is still four months away. For the moment they have to first concentrate on winning first price in the Carnaval. This is not their first attempt, but this year they feel confident of winning. They have had their spies out to collect information on the other groups and so far, the future looks rosy.

Gabriel suggests spicing up their satirical song with a bit of Buddy Holly rock rhythm like his hit song 'Rave On'. 

"I can pick that on my guitar" says Filipe and proceeds to play some cords right there in the square. Horrified, Luis tells him to stop. He likes the concept but does not want the game given away before the event. 

Excited, they quickly decide to retreat to Luis's house to rehearse this new idea and to see if it fits in with the traditional Carnaval song framework.

The rehearsal goes very well. The Rave tune allows them to add some good rhythm into their song. They keep improving on it and all agree that this will work on the day. Luis then suggests they all try to find a pair of dark heavy framed glasses they can wear to add some fun to the theme. Never mind the prescription. They can always take the lenses out. It is the image that matters.

"What if I could make a couple of imitation guitars out of some scrap wood from my parent’s outhouse?" Ángel says. A good idea, they all agree. They can mime while Filipe gives them real guitar support. 

They will soon have the beginning of their first group or band. All excited they start talking of touring all of Spain earning loads of pesetas, maybe going to America as well.

It is nice to dream, life is dreary enough with the limited possibilities for enjoyment under the present regime. But first they have to win first price at the Carnaval.

For the next week they keep rehearsing and refining their act. Gabriel and Alejandro get to perform with the guitars made by Ángel, standing at either end of the group while Filipe will be in the middle making the real music. He will be flanked by Luis and Daniel blowing their Pito de caña or reed whistles. Ángel will be in charge of the twirling the traditional rattle, specific to this part of Andalusia. They will all sing their prepared satirical song and their aim is to be a proper Chirigotas group, walking the streets of the village on Carnaval day and performing wherever they can draw a crowd. And of course win first price. Winners will be announced at the fountain in the main square at the end of the day.