I’m 18 and I bought my first whistle on Tuesday, a Generation Nickel in key of D. (I’ve also ordered a Clarke Sweetone)
I can’t read musician and I’ve never played an instrument before apart from at school when I messed around with a piano. At the moment I’m learning by checking out written and video tutorials on various websites.
I’m starting to get the hang of scales and I’ve gone ahead of myself by checking out cuts, taps, rolls and slides (I couldn’t resist). Anyways, I guess I’m feeling a little overwhelmed! It feels like there is a lot to learn and I worry about not being able to play as well as I want!
I’ve ordered the Clarke tutorial book by Bill Ochs (although I’ve just realised that I’ve only ordered the book instead of getting the book and CD)!!
I’m going to take it one step at a time making sure that I learn everything properly. I just hope I can pick up the different rhythms for the different styles of music!
Hi
Don’t be overwhelmed - just learn to play the songs and tunes you know and like. Don’t worry whether they are traditional songs or not. I used to (and still do) write them down using the simple numerical techniqe (6=all holes coverred, 0=no holes covered and 6’ etc for overblow).
The 1812 overture is quite fun - at least the bit which is practically scales anyway.
The point is to enjoy playing the instrument for your own pleasure and get used to the process and feel of playing. You can develop rolls, cuts and whatnot as you go.
As for how other people play. They didn’t play like that when they’d just bought themselves their very first Generation D.
Is it worth mentioning the need to concentrate on avoiding squeaks etc (making sure holes are covered). Also that your D whistle will play in G easily although you’ll need a half note on the first hole.
Failte Maddy!
I’m Sara, going to be 18 soon, and I’m a newbie to whistle as well. Like Coracleman, no musican became what they are today overnight. You know what they say, “practice makes perfect.” And it’s so true! Start off slow, and make sure you master one skill before you try learning a new one. Having a soild foundation is very important.
Good luck!
