I have tried a search on this but am not really getting past the first page of search replies (system keeps blocking the 2nd page onwards). So -apologies for what is probably an oft asked question
I am learning high D and low D whistle - enjoying both but particularly drawn by the low D. In fact I can’t resist picking them up first now that my fingers are getting well used to the pipers grip. I would like to try out a flute - slippery slope stuff I realise - and would like to know what I should be looking to go for that is obtainable in the UK?
I would go up to £100 but if I don’t need to in order to get a good introduction then that’s fine.
Try out a Tipple http://dougsflutes.googlepages.com/ and http://www.youtube.com/user/dougsflutes.
Not from GB, but that’s not a big issue in this case and there’s nothing British that does as good a job at this level of price and technology. If you’re happy on low whistle a Tipple will be a relatively easy transition and introduction to transverse flutes that will set you up nicely for that slippery slope.
(Yes, I did do the demo videos (for nothing) and am engaging in some R&D with Doug, but I have no financial interest in his products.)
Thanks Jem - but what a range he has - from small to large sizes - 2 piece/ 3 piece and then the various keys. As a simple whistle player what would be the best route to go with medium sized hands. A medium six hole low D flute?
I second jemtheflute… I was in EXACTLY the same situation as you about a year ago. Played the D whistle, tried the Low D, liked it (a lot). Tried the flute (Tipple, btw) and am now totally addicted to the flute. In fact, it’s really cutting into my trumpet time (my “real” instrument). I even went to an “immersion week” last summer with Grey Larsen. I now play a McGee GLP and a M&E polymer.
I guess my main advice would be, “don’t give up”. Getting the embouchure working is a relatively long process. I’ve been at it for about a year now and am finally getting really happy with my sound. More advice: before you buy a wood flute (trust me, you will), try to get to a venue where you can try some. My opportunity was over the summer at the Timber Flute Festival in Elkins, WV. That’s where the McGee came to the fore for me.
Bottom line - the Tipple is a great first flute to see if you really “want it” bad enough and will serve you well as a camping/car/whatever flute even after you buy your “good” one. The Tipple has a great tone and is easy to play.
Good luck and keep us posted…
Pat
ADDED: I’d get the six-hole tunable with the wedge, but NOT the lip plate (personal choice). I think the non-lip plate version is closer to what you’ll find when you get your wooden flute.
FWIW I’ve been playing my Tipple 3-piece D flute w/wedge & egronomic fingering, but no lip plate as unavailable when I bought mine… for about 18 months - IMO it has served me well as a starter flute & has nice tone, plays in tune, is tunable & looks good.
Being cylindrical it has a “long” R3 stretch so that’s why I recommend the ergonomic holes and requires more air than conical IMO. When I played my teachers 8 key McGee it seemed like I could get more out of each breath which is why I say that. Nuth’n aginst the Tipple. It is what it is & that = Best Deal Out There IMO.
I’ve recently ordered a Forbes flute as my first conical flute since I feel I’ve reached the point of taking lessons and I wanted a conical for that. Tipple is probably the best entry flute you will find IMO. I’m the worst player at our session, but I don’t hesitate to pull out the Tipple when the opportunity comes up to join in - the sound is really nice. By the way I’m jus a fan of Doug’s flutes - I have no association with him or his business.
Other good choices would be a Tony Dixon 3 piece conical (don’t get the cylindrical pvc one) or the Hammy Hamilton practice flute. Both are on your side of The Pond.
