Well, my parents moved up from the buying me a t-shirt whenever they go on vacation. They just returned from Ireland and brought me a Cillian O’Briain improved feadog. It’s a mighty nice whistle, but not nearly as pure as old reviews of his improved gen I’d read. I really like this whistle - nice tone, very easy on the ears upper octave, on the quieter side, yet with a bit of bite on attack that I think would do fine in a session (I’m not out to blow folks away with volume, though).
I did compare it to the tube of a new feadog, and the tone holes appear exactly the same…yet the O’Briain is infinitely more in tune - must be related to his thick blade attachment.
AND, my parents were seriously impressed with the person who helped them at Shanna Quay…I assume it was Steve.
Well, about 2 months ago I was down to only 2 whistles after thinning the herd at a garage sale, but I’ve crept back up to 4 and I can’t imagine parting with any of them…
Hey Eric, have you tried a wooden Syn in Ironwood? I have a Improved Feadog and a wooden Syn right here not but 6 feet from me. Two different whistles for sure, but the lovely sound of wood . . . give her a try if you’re up to it
Eric, do yourself a favor, and at least try ONE, but make sure it’s something of good quality. Then you can decide if it’s worth taking care of. Unless I am wrong (and I’m sure someone will point out if I am), you just need to swab the moisture out after playing, and oil every once in awhile. And keep away from fires or heat
I had a wooden flute for a while…it just made me nervous. I live life with a 6 year old kid, 2 dogs, and no desire to maintain anything since I’m perpetually maintaining a 65 year old house.
Trust me, I’m a lazy slug when it comes to instruments. Besides, I like that old whistle sound like a really good generation. I do love to look at other peoples wooden whistles and flutes, though.
