Saturday, May 16, 2009

Advantages of Clarke Original Tin (or Penny) Whistle over other types.

Having played most of the different types of penny whistle over the years I have concluded that the Clarke original is the best design amongst the mass produced whistles, for the following reasons:
  • The tone of the instrument is fuller than the whistles with the plastic tops; almost flute like.
  • The conical bore means that it is more in tune across its whole range.
  • Although it is not tuneable they always seem to be well in tune at normal pitch (A=440Hz).
  • The wooden fipple plug is naturally warmer and the windway is larger which means that it is less likely to be blocked by condensation.
  • It has a more even response, requires less air in the upper register than some of the tighter whistles, although it needs a bit more air in the lower register.
  • Because it can take more air it is potentially louder than some other whistles, but the volume is more controllable.
  • There is a bigger separation between the lower octave and the upper octave overblow which allows for a greater dynamic range in the lower octave without accidentally squealing the note that is an octave above.
  • It is inexpensive: you can get a Clarke original whistle for under £10.
  • They are made in the keys of  C or D.
 
 

Sunday, May 3, 2009

A Creationist visits the Doctor

A humorous look at the paradox of being a creationist in our modern, scientific world.