After drooling over websites, looking through forums, and purchasing sites, I have finally recieved and practiced to the point where I can play 1st scale on a D whistle (almost in one breath).
Yippee! It still sounds a bit breathy, but is no longer squalking like a headless chicken on a chalkboard. Thats just “chiff,” right? It’s a Sweetone. I took off the fipple, but couldn’t find any major burrs in the plastic.
Next step, learning what notes coorespond to what holes. Is ‘Inisheer’ a good beginers tune? Ive been listening to a few different whistle tunes, and that ones getting fairly addictive. Woo-hoo-hoo!
I feel odd replying to all these newbie’s posts, since I’m barely more than one myself! But I too have a Sweetone, and “Inisheer” was one of my first (my second, actually, I believe) tunes that I learned. I love my Sweetone, especially after tweaking it–it didn’t need much. I’d try doing that if you haven’t already (see main website, the link “Tweaking inexpensive whistles” or something similar). “Inisheer” is one of my favorite airs ever, and I think it’s a great way to start. Try the versions on Clips & Snips-- http://www.tinwhistletunes.com/clipssnips/
Remember to take it slow, learning it note by note, and don’t get discouraged. Have fun!
Edited to correct the link, and to add: yes, the breathiness is normal for the Sweetone. Some people like that sound, some don’t.. I personally adore it. Reminds me of wind blowing through trees as I play.
Ammendment #2: that link to Clips & Snips still isn’t working. You can get it from the main website’s list o’links, though.
“All things by immortal power, hiddenly,
to eachother linked are;
thou canst not stir a flower
without troubling of a star.” (Madeleine L’Engle)
[ This Message was edited by: Soineanta on 2003-02-02 21:19 ]
[ This Message was edited by: Soineanta on 2003-02-02 21:20 ]
Although not Irish, I think “Shenandoah” is a satisfying simple song to play. I have a link to it in the key of D, but I play it in G so that it fits on my whistle.
No leg pulling, my humor lies in the more sarcastic black humour variety. I’ve run accross the quote a few times myself, but since I discoved Heinlein’s works all by my lonesome a long time ago, I freely use it. It does so mirror my own philosophies.
Ack, another sour note. The whistle is a harsh mistress.
I am, was, and ever shall be Fibulo: accept no substitutes!
