I have a Shaw low D that I want to keep as a backup. My main low D is a Chieftain which is working out great. The transition to the Shaw is really tough because of the considerable difference in air requirements. Any suggestions. Does Jerry Freeman tweak these to lessen the air requirements yet keep most of the characteristic Shaw sound? Does anyone have his email address?
Lisdoonvarna
It’s my understanding that Jerry doesn’t tweak the Low D’s anymore, since it involved removing the metal flashing covering the front of the fipple block.
But, do a search-there have been postings about tweaking them. Sometimes it works well, and sometimes you end up ruining a good whistle! Of course, it won’t sound like a Chieftain. Your best backup for it would be another Chieftain!
Some people actually like the untweaked Shaw Low D as is-so you could probably sell it and put it towards another whistle more like your Chieftain. Just some thoughts.
I’ve had considerable luck by taking matchsticks (I think that’s what I used) and sticking them in the sides of the windway, one on each side.
Like, uh,
(____)
Keeps the shaw sound, but lowers the breath requirements. Not a lot of volume or anything, but usefull by itself or playing with a very few. I carry it around with me a lot. Very comfortable in the hand.