Introduction
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The tin whistle is a great instrument. It's simple enough for a complete beginner to learn in a short time, yet it is capable of an incredible range of expression, from the most subtle, delicate tune, to a dazzling display of virtuosity. It is extremely versatile and has been used in many different kinds of music for a long time, and is continually being refined and adapted to new music. Last but not necessarily least, it's cheap, small, durable, and completely portable.
The tin whistle, or pennywhistle as it is also sometimes called, is a small end-blown flute normally made of tin, brass, or some other metal, with six holes in a diatonic (major) scale. Some are made of wood or plastic instead of metal. The tin whistle has a range of two octaves or more, and is available in a number of keys. Until recently, it was made of rolled tin with a wooden fipple in one end forming a windway. Though these are still available, most players today use the modern whistle which incorporates a plastic mouthpiece.
I wrote this guide for the benefit of those who want to learn to play tin whistle and who don't have easy access to a teacher or other instruction, and I've tried to incorporate anything I have learned which might be of value. This guide describes Irish-style playing in particular, though the techniques here could probably be applied to other music as well, and I have tried to distinguish Irish-style playing from other styles where applicable. Please bear in mind that I'm not Irish, have never competed in or won any contests, and have no formal training or other qualifications, so anything herein could be countermanded by someone with more experience. This guide simply represents my own take on the subject.