Does anyone own a Lee Valley tin whistle? I am wondering if anyone had the same experience as I. My brother bought one last month, and let me try, but I am not very impressed. The fipple had a lip that made is awkward to play, and the sound was not very good either.
Anyone?
Kaitlin
Kaitlin,
Unfortunately from time to time somebody like yourself writes in with the same experience regarding Lee Valley whistles.
These whistles are actually made by Patrick Cooperman who is known mainly for his drums. He provides historical drums to museums and places where people re-enact the civil war. He also makes some historical wooden toys for sale at historical sites. Unfortunately the whistles are not meant to be “real” unstruments, just toys, so do not usually play well, if at all. If you are looking for an inexpensive whistle to learn on, don’t use the Lee Valley/ Cooperman whistles - get yourself a nice Generation.
Sue
Paddy Cooperman died about 6 or 8 years ago. Other family members have taken over the business.
The good news is that they don’t seem to be selling whistles or maple fifes any more. The bad news is that there are probably still a lot of old ones floating around in gift shops at various historic tourist traps.
I didn’t think they actually make those whistles themselves. I’ve been under the impression that the Coopermans just packaged and marketed them. My suspicion was that the whistles were made by whoever makes Asarka whistles (which are very similar and equally miserable). If you know different, please fill me in.
Cooperman does make some nice fifes in a much more expensive price range. They also make wonderful drums, as you’ve mentioned. I have two Cooperman Liberty series drums and I just love 'em.
Thank you both very much. I’ll get my brother a Clarke, or a Generation to replace it.
Kaitlin