After only playing a bunch of high D whistles, I’ve been thinking about trying one in a lower key–something in an alto or tenor range (as opposed to a high D or a low D). However, I’m not sure how to go about picking a key(s) to try. Are there keys that are more popular? If so, what makes them popular? (i.e., do they sound better? easier to play? more music written in that particular key? something else?)
Any suggestions would be appreciated. And, what the heck, you might as well suggest a manufacturer in the $50-150 range. (FYI, the Water Weasel advice I received some months ago concerning a high D was right on for me.)
I have a Hoover low A (aluminum Whitecap) which I like a lot. A is a pleasant key for slow airs.
I’m thinking about a low G, but haven’t decided what I might go for. I got to play IDAwHOa’s Bleazey, which was great, but a bit on the expensive side. Having a Burke high D and high C that I like a lot, I might go that route–or maybe something completely different.
One thing about A and G is that I’m more able to sing in keys that those whistles can play in. Sometimes I like to do an Old-Timey song, like Sweet Sunny South or Little Sparrow, and alternate between singing and playing.
I’d strongly suggest a Water Weasel A or Bb, then. They share most of the D’s good attributes, but with a wonderful warm woody tone that sounds almost like it might be a wooden flute. Awesome whistles, easily my most played whistles not in D/Eb.
I’m with Colomon, possibly a step further. A Water Weasel Bflat/A set is within your price range, and they’re simply incredible whistles, and you can play in D and Eflat with the pair. Glenn’s tops, too, and he almost always has whistles in stock.
Heck, getting complete Bb and A Water Weasels is within two dollars of his price range. I always hesitate to suggest getting multiple bodies with one head, because frankly I like having both of the whistles ready to go in an instant, and it lets me keep the A ready to go in my backpack, and the Bb on my desk to play at a moment’s notice.
You can’t go wrong with Gary Humphrey’s whistles with additional tubing for a low price. You could get a wide bore A for $115 plus a G tube for an additional $30. Or get a narrow A for $105 and a Bb tube for $25. Plus they sound great! The wait isn’t bad either (only a couple of weeks).
