I’ve had my new Busman Birdseye Maple in C long enough to have it good and broken in. Seems like a good time to write my idea of a whistle review!
Like all Busman whistles the workmanship is beyond reproach. It is just lovely and flawless and this particular wood is very attractive. A lovely light tan with darker brown “eyes” running thru it. Paul chose to use stainless steel fittings and the silver color is perfect with the tone of this wood.
Measuring 13" this whistle is indeed a bit longer than the Busman D. That is to be expected in a C whistle. Diameter is about the same for both. I am very pleased with the spacing on the finger holes as I have small hands and this is one of the few C whistles I have found that is really very easy for me to play without the usual bloopers when I don’t reach far enough. It is very close to the spacing on my D. Holes are nicely finished and smooth to the touch.
This little beauty has the expected wonderful Busman woody tone. It is lower than the D…of course but has its own sound. It is not like a D only lower. It is very distinctive. Solid bell note and moves very smoothly and effortlessly thru the 2nd octave. Don’t ask me about the 3rd as I don’t go there!!! I would classify it in the midrange as far a loudness goes. I don’t think I would personally use this whistle in a session..but what do I know about sessions??? I find it ideal for solo play. I am especially happy with what it does with a slow air. I can really pack alot of emotion into this whistle on these particular tunes. I would not classify it as “pure”..there is a hint of chiff that is very, very pleasing.
If you currently own a Busman in D and have wondered about the C my advice would be …DON"T HESITATE!! You really need one to round out your collection! This is coming from me, you must understand who up until this point never met a C whistle that I liked. And I ran thru the best of them. This is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Thats saying alot!
Thanks again Paul!! Always a pleasure and a continuing joy!