Chiff and Fipple Forums

Hello all,

I just joined your forum. For the last 2 years I have been learning to play the native American flute and wanted to expand my experience. The penny whistle captured my attention after watching several YouTube videos. After some googling I ended up purchasing two Jerry Freeman tweaked whistles (Mellow Dog and Blackbird) in the key of D. They arrived yesterday, but there was no information included. I like to know if these flutes are tunable? I did not want to push or pull on the mouthpiece just in case this would cause damage. Thank you and I look forward to my time here as I learn to play.

Yes, both are tuneable by adjusting how much of the body is covered by the mouthpiece.

Thank you for your reply.

You will notice that Jerry Freeman has pressed a brass ring onto the mouthpiece, to help prevent the 'collar' section from cracking, as you slide the mouthpiece up and down to get into tune.
I'm a fan of Jerry's whistles.

Bob

When you see photos of whistleplayers back when everyone was played plastic-top Generations you'll often see tape or binding around the socket area, due to the tendency of the socket to develop cracks.

Jerry's solution is much more elegant!

I'm also a fan of Jerry's work. I have a Freeman Tweaked Generation Bb that's the finest Bb I've ever owned. He somehow fixes all the tuning issues those cheap whistles have. I've never played a Freeman that didn't have bang-on tuning.

Might I suggest, V-Twin, that you investigate Ronaldo Reyburn's whistles? I've played a number of his Low Whistles and beyond having perfect tuning they have a special unique tone that reminds me of the NAF, especially his wooden-head whistles.

Thanks for the information. Being new to the whistle I have a lot to learn. Appreciate the sharing of information.