I’ve been playing in sessions for about a year. I have a Susato, but I’m not crazy about the tone. My best session whistle is a Songbird. It’s an aluminum beast made by the same guy who makes Chieftains. (I’ve opened up some holes and taped others to help with in-tune-ness).
Here’s the deal. I’ve got $500.00. I can spend $300 or more on something that is:
A: in tune with itself. (I could stand variations of 5 cents either way).
B: about as loud as a Susato.
C: good sounding. For me “good sounding” means “Good Generation”.
D: easy to play. (You don’t have to fight it)
I’m drawn towards a Copeland. I like the tone a lot. What I absolutely (positively) do NOT want is anything that remotely sounds like a recorder.
Yeah, a Copeland sounds like a good idea, though they sometimes get a little sharp in the upper octave (not all of them, though).
A Silkstone alloy would be loud, but too much like a recorder. A Burke brass pro is not like a recorder, but isn’t as loud as a Susato.
For what you want to spend, you really can get the best of the best. An Abell is terrific, but not all of them are loud (you could request a loud one, though). If you want an in-tune (through both octaves) Copeland, I would suggest asking for an on-the-quiet-side one.
My choice - Biased - is to get a Burke Alpro D - it is my choice for being in tune with itself (and the world). I’m not sure how it’s done but I am very pleased with the D that I have
I’m very partial to Burke’s myself. Last time I visited by sister in law (in Sunderland, Ont) I gave her a much-beloved Burke in gratitude for favors she did for me and the wife.
How about the Greenwood whistles? I know a member that just got the D/C set recently advertised here and he said it is the best whistles he has ever played!! No experience personally.
I recently replaced my Susatos with a Sweetheart Professional (the birchwood laminate one), and it definitely sounds like what you’re looking for. As much volume as the Susatos, but MUCH nicer sound, and spot-on tuning-wise. It’s an easy blower too. It looks a little different from the other whistles you might find at a session, but if that doesn’t bother you, it might be just the thing.
I think you should check out the new Reyburn. They are definitely loud enough for a rousing session and they have L.E. McCullough’s endorsement. And you won’t have to spend all your money, they’re going for $90.00.
I hate to say it, but you can go wrong with a Copeland. The good ones are phantastic, sure, but the quality of the Copelands is not always consistent. Best is to try before you buy.
How do you do that? Any whistle I know (with the exception perhaps of the higher Overtons) I can blow 20 cents sharp or flat, by adjusting angle and airpressure.
