I made two prototype harmonic overtones walking stick flutes), which are great fun to play, and thought that it would be possible to make walking stick whistles, using the same tubing, in low G, F#, and F. The 18mm bore tube will give a standard low G and a narrow bore low F. The look will be the similar to the overtones walking sticks, with six finger holes and two further vent holes below. The foot will be removable (push fit), and by removing the foot the walking stick whistle will be well balanced. The head will have a blow hole at the side, opposite the window, instead of a beak end, so this whistle will be blown holding it sideways as a flute (the wind channel goes first across through the delrin plug, before being directed towards the labium blade). Of course a flute version could be made as well… What do you think?
Personally, I’d rather just carry my favorite low whistle in a whistle bag along with using a seperate hiking stick, and be done with it. But those with extra money may want to have the luxury of a hiking stick/whistle/flute if they so desire. I don’t believe there has been much of a market for them before though, so I wouldn’t be surprised if you didn’t get many inquries for them, but I could be wrong.
The idea of a whistle stick came as afterthought making the harmonic overtones flutes, which work very nicely as sticks, as they use the whole length and the foot is not just for walking, but serves to block the foot end, thereby giving the overtones flute another mode to play in. With the foot removed it can play two series of overtones, and in combination some interesting scales.
Very imaginitive Hans! 