How to Find a "Good" Whistle while still avoiding Whistle Obsessive Acquisition Disorder (WhOA)

There are two basic categories of tin whistles:  Inexpensive Whistles and High End (i.e., expensive) Whistles.  The nice thing about whistling is that High End whistles are not necessarily "better" than or "superior" to the inexpensive whistles.  In fact, many famous whistlers make their living performing with inexpensive whistles.  High End whistles are crafted from brass, nickel and sterling silver and often combine beautiful musical performance with elegant artistic design and presentation. Inexpensive Whistles and High End Whistles are both available in a range of keys.  The key of D is a good choice for your first whistle, since a large number of tunes are in this key. Excellent surveys and reviews of currently available whistles (both inexpensive and high end) can be found on Dale Wisely's most excellent whistle site Chiff and Fipple, (the undisputed online Mecca of whistling).  Dale's comprehensive coverage of the subject was my introduction to the wide world of whistles, and I can think of no better source to direct the beginner shopping for their first whistle.  Also, having resisted the temptation to buy lots of whistles, I'm not yet qualified to comment on all of them. (Not yet, anyway) Chiff and Fipple's Survey of Inexpensive Whistles Chiff and Fipple's Survey of High End Whistles For what it's worth, here are my own personal thoughts on Inexpensive vs. High End Whistles for the Beginning Whistler.

Clark SweeTone (Key of C and D) The SweeTone is one of the most popular of the inexpensive whistles Cost:  USD $5.80

*****************   WARNING    ****************** Viewing the links above may significantly increase your risk of succumbing to Whistle Obsessive Acquisition Disorder (commonly known as WhOA).  First documented by Chiff and Fipple's Dale Wisely, WhOA is commonly evidenced by the overwhelming desire to buy lots and lots of whistles.   For those of you who are married, I strongly recommend that you place all credit cards in the custody of your spouse before viewing the above page links to ensure that your domestic tranquility is preserved.

The Legendary Copeland High D whistle (tuneable).   Available in Brass, Nickel and Sterling Silver (Nickel shown here) The Copeland is considered by many to be the Rolls Royce of High End Whistles Cost:  USD $269.00

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