I am confused. I see Susatos can have 1 or 2 keys put on for you. Is this so one can play even if covering the holes is difficult (due to small hands) or is the purpose of keys to allow play notes not normally allowed?
The former, not the latter. The keys cover the third finger holes on each hand, and allow a shorter reach for smaller hands. Especially since the hole spacing of Susato low whistles tends to be a bit larger than some others.
Jubilee Music www.tinwhistles.us will put keys on for both reasons.
I have a low whistle with keys like this (to shorten the finger reach.) I have big hands, but find the keys make it easier to play a bit quicker. However, doing crans, rolls, etc. with these keys can be a little tricky. Its a two way street, but I do find that I’m usually using a low whistle for airs more than anything, so it works out.
I also have a few keyed chromatic whistles. They are pretty handy, but if the holes for the chromatics (extra notes) don’t seal up nice and tight, tone will be greatly sacrificed!
The other issue is that some keys “click” or “rattle” a lot, and if you’re playing into a mic, it will get picked up.
Lordo, I’m very curious what whistles those might be. I know of Ralph Sweet’s 3-keyed Killourhy whistles. But is there something else out there now that’s not experimental or custom-made?
The other issue is that some keys “click” or “rattle” a lot, and if you’re playing into a mic, it will get picked up.
Have you done any new things with your homemade whistle?
One of the ways to key keys more silent is to get some 1/8" closed cell foam with adhesive backing. Companies that sell rubber seals usually have this. Cut the pieces in to tiny strips and and place them where the handle of your key lands. That will prevent clacking when the key comes down.
The key design that I make is very similar to block mounted keys on flutes and Uilleann pipes. I get no click or ambient noise from them with this approach. I have an older Low whistle with a Key for the Low D note that I got from a friend. This has recently been re vamped by me, but beofe hand, the key style was such that the piviot and spring were very loosely fit, and it would creak and rattle when depressed. I had to remove the key entirely, and fassion a new one out of brass stock. But putting a pad under the key “finger contact” is a good idea if that’s the clicking point.
By the way Dan, thanks again for the piece of channel! I made a few keys with it the other week, and it worked like a charm! Once I get my digital camera working again, I’ll post pictures. 