The Ultimate Tin Whistle Buying Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Tin Whistle for You

The tin whistle, also known as the penny whistle or Irish whistle, is a popular instrument with a rich history in Irish traditional music. It's an affordable and compact instrument that's easy to play, making it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned musicians alike. If you're thinking of buying a tin whistle, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you choose the perfect instrument for you. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Consider the Tin Whistle Material

Traditionally, tin whistles were made of tin, but nowadays, they can be made of a variety of materials, including brass, nickel, aluminum, wood or plastic. Each material has its unique properties, affecting the tone and playability of the whistle. Tin whistles made of brass, nickel, and aluminum have a brighter tone, while wooden whistles have a warmer and mellower sound. Plastic whistles which tend to be a little louder are also an option, as they are durable and affordable, making them a popular choice for beginners.

Choose the Tin Whistle Key

Tin whistles come in a variety of keys, with the most common being D. The key you choose will depend on the type of music you want to play. The D whistle is the most popular and versatile key, as it's the most commonly used key in Irish traditional music and is the key you will need for these lessons.

Consider Your Tin Whistle Skill Level

If you're a beginner, you'll want to look for a whistle that's easy to play and doesn't require a lot of skill to produce a good sound. Entry-level tin whistles are designed with beginners in mind and are often made of ABS plastic or low-cost metals. If you're a more advanced player, you may want to invest in a higher-end instrument made of quality materials.

Tin Whistle Price

Tin whistles are affordable instruments, with entry-level whistles costing around $10-$20. However, higher-end whistles can cost up to $100 or more. Consider your budget and the amount of time you plan to spend playing the instrument when choosing a tin whistle.

Choosing the perfect tin whistle can be a daunting task, but by considering the material, key, quality, skill level, and price, you can find an instrument that's perfect for you. Don't be afraid to try out different whistles and brands to find the one that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, the tin whistle is a versatile and enjoyable instrument that's sure to bring joy and excitement to your music-making.

Tin Whistle Recommendations

There are many many tin whistles out there, some and good and some are bad. These 3 tin whistles I believe are the best in their respective price ranges and I have tried all 3 so I know they are all good. I'm not affiliated with any of the whistles and don't receive any compensation for any recommendations.

Woodi Tin Whistle:

Affordable, Tunable, Loud, Plastic

Around $20

These whistles are basically a copy of a well known tin whistle maker called "Susato" These sell for around $20, bang for buck this is the best a beginner whistle player can do. Available in C or D.

Kildare Tin Whistle

Moderate price, Easy to blow, Clear Sound

Around $100

This is a great sounding tin whistle that sounds very traditional. It's easy to blow and little on the quiet side. It's a great choice if you want a whistle thats easy to play with a clear cut sound. Available in many keys.

Burke Tin Whistle

High/Moderate price, Easy to play, Clear Sound, Tunable, Perfect volume

Around $250

These are the whistles I play. Very easy to play with a clear sound in both octaves that play at a perfect volume for at home, in a session or on stage. They are also tunable with impeccable intonation compared to most whistles. Available in many keys.