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11/10/11 | KIMO CD
Phil Hardy
In memory of a good friend.
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22/09/11 | Kerrywhistles in Steyning West Sussex
Phil Hardy
Hi, for anyone in the West Sussex region of the UK, we have adopted a small shop in Steyning. The shop is Guitar Freq in the main street Ross is the owner and more than happy to help in any way. http://www.guitarfreq.co.uk/ phil.
13/08/11 | 凯利哨笛中国代理
Tong Lei
凯利哨笛中国代理 环球旋律世界民族乐器店，位于风景秀丽的中国云南红河州。负责人佟雷先生于2005年开始，在中国从事凯尔特哨笛和世界民族乐器的推广工作。我们将与佟先生进一步合作，让更多的中国朋友，轻松拥有您喜爱的凯利系列高端哨笛。 佟先生联系方式， 电话:15368329667 qq:277039 邮箱:tl@dr.com
08/08/11 | The Two Optimas
Phil Hardy
Tim Dowd was in the area and dropped by, we haven't seen each other for two years. I gave Tim the new Kerry Optima to try and we had a tune or two. http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=18# Look for The Two Optimas phil
05/08/11 | Kerry Optima Review
Lesley O'Leary
Review of: The Optima Low D Whistle by Lesley O’Leary - Musician & Music Teacher My initial thoughts were that it was a very big whistle (56.7 cm long and 2.5cm in diameter) compared to the standard High D whistle (29.5cm long & weighs 34gms) that I would usually play. It is beautifully crafted with a purple tinted mouthpiece and alloy body. Amazingly light weight for its size, I weighed it in at 192 grams. However, having read Jenny’s review - I was expecting to be able to play the whistle on the first attempt but alas no. The Hole spacing – took a bit of getting used to – a big stretch compared to a normal sized whistle – I find the stretch between the D & E holes are particularly wide and difficult. However, I’ve practiced it for an hour or so for the last 7 days and have seen a huge improvement. As a traditional music player I feel that once this “stretch” is mastered there should be little difficulty in playing any tune. As the saying goes – “Practice makes perfect”. I was really surprised by the minimal amount of breath needed to get such a lovely tone whether it is soft & haunting or loud and imposing. Absolutely no comparison with other Low whistles I’ve tried and failed to master. The Optima Low D whistle is, for me, “the cream of the crop.” It is a beautiful instrument and I’m sure other high whistle players will feel the same about it when they try it. I intend to keep playing and to master the Optima Low D whistle and will promote it to fellow musicians and students alike. Best of luck to Phil for the future and may he continue to be a great innovator. What a nice review. I also have a Kerry pro low D tuneable for sale at £165 inc postage. phil@kerrywhistles.com if you are interested. phil
03/08/11 | Kerry Optima -V3 Comparison Vid
Phil Hardy
I have posted a video in the Pro-Files section of MOVIES comparing the V3 low D to the new Kerry Optima as requested. phil
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22/07/11 | Folk Festival 2011
Phil Hardy
The new kerry Optima will be available to try and buy at the following UK folk festivals July-August 2011 at the Hobgoblin Music Stand. Sidmouth Cambridge Cropredy Warwick Towersey Whitby Wadebridge - I will be running 3 days of workshops. Bromyard
17/07/11 | Kerry Optima Clear low D
Phil Hardy
We now have Clear and tinted Purple heads for the Optima. pic below Clear.
15/07/11 | Optima Pitch Adjustable.
Phil Hardy
We have decided to make the new Kerry Optima tuneable-pitch adjustable. They will NOT be available as fixed whistles but WILL be available in all tenor keys D Eb E and with the new CLEAR headshells and Purple Tint Clear headshell from 17th July at £79 inc postage. Other colours to follow. phil.
12/07/11 | Whistle Collectors
Phil Hardy
As you all know we have the Kerry Optima whistles now available and they are selling very well. Our very first batch came out with the number 200511 ie 20.05.2011. We are nearly sold out of the first batch and onto the second batch number 070711. For all of you who like collecting first additions of new whistles, I suggest that you get the first addition Kerry Optima low D now, we have 13 fixed and 17 tunables left and will soon be into the second batch. The Optima tenor E and Eb"s will be available from the end of this week in fixed and tunable models. I have given the go ahead for the next set of tooling for the Alto's and Mezzo and I hope to have them available for the autumn. We will be introducing coloured heads for the Kerry Optima soon and they will be colour coded thus: BK - Black ( standard ) CL - Clear GR - Green RD - RED BL -Blue YL - YELLOW There will also be clear tinted colours soon. I would also like to BIG UP Roy McManus Whistles, he is a maker in Belfast and has sent some whistles to Tony for review, this he has done and will be on the site later today, I have also recorded a review and you'll find it in the PRO-FILES section of MOVIES. I would like to invite all of you who have purchased a Kerry Optima to send a short video clip of you playing it and a short review of your own for the Kerrywhistles website. Mp4 format and no longer than 1.5 mins. You can email the clips to the above email. phil
05/07/11 | Kerry Optima Review No1
Jenny Rees
Optima Low D Player Review - Jenny Rees Composer and Whistle Player! First impressions on holding the instrument - it's balanced and delightfully light, whilst having the feel of a fine quality instrument. I must admit to having some initial reservations about a plastic headed low d, however, having seen and played this instrument I concede that the plastic head has added some magical alchemy of its own, more about this later! Playability - here goes! It sits very well under the fingers. Any female players out there who have concerns about stretch need have no worries, I play two other low d's and this is by far the most comfortable to play. I'd love to see more female low d players, if you play the usual higher d whistle then I assure you that you could move with ease to this instrument, a whole new tone world is open to you - don't hesitate, you'll love it! What about the sound? It's gorgeous, moving through warm and dark to soft and singing and with the added excitement of subtle dancing high end harmonics, all dependent on your breath - this is what I meant when I talked earlier of the plastic head adding an alchemy to the sound - there's some sort of magic in there. I spent ages simply playing long held tones just to enjoy the response of the instrument to subtle changes in breath. I also found it very easy to move from the first octave to the second with a wonderful continuity of tone colour and agility. My own playing style moves through traditional to less conventional genres and this whistle offers exciting possibilities of use. I will definitely be recording with it and using it in my professional capacity as media music composer and player. Finally, thanks to Phil for producing a great whistle and a special call to all female whistlers out there - take the plunge! Jenny Rees - Composer and Whistle Player.
05/07/11 | Kerry Headshells
Phil Hardy
Hi, I now have the plastic Kerry version 1 headshell available from the www.kerrywhistles.com/store.php at £16 inc postage I have about 60 left so if you are after one now is the time. phil.
06/06/11 | Optima Update.
Phil Hardy
A big thank you to all the people who bought the last of the Kerry Low D's. This is the end of an era. We have sold 1000s of these low whistles and many people had one as their first low D, so hats off to and old friend and goodbye. I have kept some heads back as replacements for existing players, they will be on the site as an individual item. The Kerry Optima low D is in the final stages of production, we are within a week of production and yes, I can't wait either. They will also be available in PINK, my daughter Aysha insisted. phil.
11/04/11 | Canada - Kerrywhistles - Products
Phil Hardy
We are now trading with Long & McQuade in Canada, they have 26 stores across the country so you can now try our whistles. Here are the details. http://www.long-mcquade.com/ Long & McQuade Ltd. 722 Rosebank Rd. Pickering, ON L1W 4B2 Ph: (905) 837-9785, 275 Fx: (905) 837-978 We deal with them direct so you can also contact me once you have a Chieftain Whistle. Phil.
03/04/11 | Kerry Optima Low D
Phil Hardy
Kerry Optima Low Whistle Press Release In the last twenty years of making low whistles buy hand and in manufacture, I have seen many new ideas and designs emerge from the first low whistle concept. Yet the original concept had always been the best and still is for many. Over this long period, there has been much mention of recurring topics and issues about low whistles. Air requirement, hole spacing’s, clogging, weight, tuning and price. It was then and is now my intention to get a low D whistle with the smallest air requirement, comfortable hole spacing’s, lightweight, non clogging, sweet toned, in tune at low cost, on to the market. I feel I have achieved this ambition with the new Kerry Optima Low D Whistle. Having made whistles for the top whistler players around the world, I know what sounds good. I wanted to get the sweet point that they all love in a hand made whistle into a whistle that costs less than half the price with a much more comfortable hole spacing’s (with the female stretch in mind). When I started playing whistle, it was a Feadog pennywhistle which weighed nothing at all, so the Kerry Optima had to feel very light and airy but with a kicking tone that needed no extra air, even right up the top end, just like a proper pennywhistle you can blow all day long. The Kerry Optima has been in design for the last year and is soon to be in production. It is a plastic headed low whistle with an alloy body, just like the old Kerry but with the playability of a Kerry Pro and with much less air requirement, light as a feather and very, very sweet. I have the prototype and cannot put the thing down. As moisture/clogging has always been a big issue with many players, the Kerry Optima, being a whistle with a plastic mouthpiece will not have these issues and will not need warming up to be in pitch. The Kerry Optima is my dream whistle. The sound is easily changed from soft to loud without and perceived increase in breath giving a huge amount of control over any given piece. No more need of that great “ lungful of air and off we go “, just very comfortable playing. If you are already a low whistler, you will find you have more air than you need and may need to take a lot less to achieve the same thing. Cost has always been an issue. Many people are put off “ high end “ whistles as they completely out of reach pricewise, our new whistle will be retailing at price all can afford and will be available in a variety of shades which makes it fun to. Keep it simple, make it fun. The Kerry Optima will be available in all keys this year starting with tenor D Eb & E. This is the Low Whistle Revolution 2011. See NEWS for Optima prototype pic.
23/03/11 | Low Whistle CD Reissued.
Phil Hardy
Hi Guys I am delighted to announce the reissue of my very first CD Low Whistle recorded in 2000. Buy a copy and get " Whistleworks " free. The CD will cost £10 inc postage. Don't forget that you can now get a copy of " Can U Handle This " my latest CD recorded 2010 with Dave Adams and Jammie Murray, this CD is a must if you like whistle music but don't like Irish trad and also comes with a free copy of Whistleworks. I am releasing " Highs & lows " and " Whistle Graffiti " on CD very soon, these have never been out on CD and were only available as downloads. Stay cool. phil.
05/03/11 | Business Info
Phil Hardy
Hi, I have just been informed by our credit card processors that SOLO and MAESTRO cards will no longer be accepted through our website SHOP. These products have been withdrawn by our card processors not us. We are now offering the Complete Set of Chieftain tunable whistles at £717 inc postage worldwide and reduced the cost of the Kerry Plastic head whistle to £45 inc postage worldwide. I also have a Chieftain NR G fixed whistle for sale at £50 if anyone is interested. Anyone who buys a copy of CuhT CD will get a copy of Whistleworks free. More news soon. phil
28/02/11 | March Madness
Phil Hardy
Hi Guys, March is now upon us so I have decided to reduce the price of Chieftain V3s to £75 until the madness passes. You can now get a Chieftain low D F G at a reduction of £40 inc postage worldwide. Don't hang about , I may get serious very soon.... phil
14/02/11 | Free Brass Body.
Phil Hardy
We are giving away a FREE Brass low D body with every Chieftain NR Low whistle pack. www.kerrywhistles.com/store.php Phil
24/01/11 | Sample Track
Phil Hardy
Sample track from CuhT- Can U Handle This, the new Cd from Hardy-Adams-Murray. It's a new concept for the whistle and available from www.kerrywhistles.com/store.php Have a listen. http://www.kerrywhistles.com/mp3/1-09%20just%20look%20at%20me.mp3
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20/01/11 | First Review
Phil Hardy
Just got my first review from Chief Wang: This album sets out to break away from the idea that, if you have a whistle, you play jigs and reels - end of story. It does so, and with ease. Driven by the crisp and concise jazz drumming of Jamie Murray and with inventive and funky keyboards from Dave Adams and bass from Phil Hardy, the album has a light and, almost, "easy-listening" feel, and that is not to say that "easy-listening" is a bad thing. Here, it's a very good thing. The whistle lines from Phil Hardy are, refreshingly, not what you would expect from a whistle, and are complemented by laid-back and colourful trombone work from Adams. Everything on the album is played by a human being, and that adds to t= he "feel-good" factor. The production also contributes, with a warm overall sound. Nice work. Cheers Chief.
17/01/11 | BACK TRAX
Phil Hardy
Hi everybody. I am delighted to announce that ALL of my CD and more will soon be available as CD's. Low Whistle - 2001 Whistle Works - 2002 * Highs & Lows 2004 - Remastered Whistle Graffiti 2006 - Remastered Revisited 2008 - Compilation * Can You handle - This 2011 - Hardy-Adams-Murray - New CD * Peso Whistles - 2004 - Tony Hinnigan Women at the Edge - 1995 - remastered * already available - www.kerrywhistles.com/store.php What a blast from the past. All Cds priced at £10. inc postage globally. All good stuff. Phil. ps, something very special on the horizon!
14/01/11 | New CD CuhT Hardy-Adams-Murray
Phil Hardy
Hi Guys, it is with great pleasure that I can announce the release of a new Cd CuhT. This CD is a complete departure from any whistle music I have recorded in the past. Older recording are of myself playing most of the instruments. It was an interesting time for me as I was new to the whistle and wanted to use my skills in playing , what was for the most part, Irish styled music. CuhT was inspired by the great jazz music from the late 50's and early 60's, the era of my childhood. I wanted to work with other people of great stature so I invited Dave Adams and Jamie Murray to join the project. Dave is a seasoned pro and a multi instrumentalist like myself with roots in all aspects of modern music. His keyboard skills are second to none. Jamie Murray on the other hand is only 19 with a fresh approach to drumming. He also has a great interest in the same jazz period as myself and has been inspired by the late jazz greats bringing the energy of the past into the modern ear of music. His enthusiasm for music is a great inspiration so I was delighted he could bring his own particular talent to the project. The aim of all of this was to have some fun and break away from seasoned beliefs that whistles are only for Folk Music. Also, the usual format has been dropped, all playing was first take with any mistakes left in as not to loose the vibe of performance. This has given the CD a new feel that I have not heard on whistle recording of late as most music these days is totally over produced. With the exception of one track, all tracks contain the same set of instruments, Kit, Grand Piano, Rhodes & Wurlitzer electric piano's Hammond B3 Organ, Double Bass, Telecaster Guitar and Various old whistles. this does give the whole recording a dated yet modern live vibe. It has certainly been a labour of love and i am very proud to have been in such elevated company in the making of this music. The CD's will be of limited addition as mp3s seem to have taken over these days. The CD is 10 tracks of music, most mp3s are price at 79p these days so to cover printing costs we are selling the CD at £1 per track making the CD £10. You can buy copies from the Kerrywhistles SHOP The whistle is just an instrument and you can play what ever you like on it, so I did. Hope you like it. phil
10/01/11 | And now for something completely different.
Phil Hardy
2011, this is going to be a great year, a year to break some moulds. Many years ago now a certain chief Wanganui came into my life and imbibed me with the idea that whistles/low whistle were, in fact just instruments. My whistle background is purely trad, never having associated whistle with anything else. The Chief in his wisdom was correct. It has taken me 10 years to explore a different aspects of playing the whistle as just an " instrument " It has a voice that, can be constricted buy conventional " trad only " attitudes. This thinking allowed us to explore the unconventional. With three other musicians, we have put together a CD of un-conventional pieces using whistles in a freeform format rather than " trad tunes ". Trad music is not everyone's cup of tea, so giving the whistle a different ID allows more people to just enjoy the instrument. For more info about the new CD, please join us on facebook as I know you don't like receiving too many emails, nor do I. http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000896282315 Many thanks and a happy new year to all. phil dave and jamie
29/10/10 | For South Korean Whistles.
Phil Hardy
Euromusic www.euromusic.co.kr handok@euromusic.co.kr Tel: 031-719 0869 한국에는 우리회사(Kerry Whistles)의 모든종류의 휘슬을 유럽악기사에서 독점으로 공급하고 있습니다. 유감스럽게도 저희들이 한국에는 저희휘슬을 직접 판매를 할 수 없습니다. 유럽악기사로 연락을 하시면 원하시는 휘슬을 구입 할 수 있습니다. 감사합니다. 필 Phil 유럽악기 www.euromusic.co.kr handok@euromusic.co.kr 전화: 031-719 0869
22/10/10 | A Fab Deal.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, from the 1st November for one week we will have chieftain V3 low D fixed whistles for £75. We know many people like to get a new whistle for Xmas and cannot afford the retail price, so here is a price that will suite xmas gift buyers and players alike. This is inc postage world wide. phil.
12/10/10 | KerryPros For Sale.
The Maker.
Hi guys, I have 1 x KerryPro low D £185 1 x Kerry Custom low D with alloy and brass bodies £200 & I x Kerrypro F at £185 These whistles seem to go very fast. All prices are inc postage worldwide. Interested: phil@kerrywhistles.com I have paypal now which makes purchase much easier. phil.
09/10/10 | HARDY-BUTLER-PROJECT
Phil Hardy
In 2008 I recorded a load of trax with singer and multi-instrumentalist Katie Butler. The music got shelved until now. We have decided release an EP of the best trax. You can hear a Hardy-Butler-Project taster at: http://www.kerrywhistles.com/mp3.php?group=28 The trax will be available very soon at: www.kerrywhistles.com/store.php phil
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19/06/10 | Chieftain V3 Custom Video.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, I have posted a short vid of the new Chiefatn V3 Custom low Ds. They come with alloy and brass bodies. You will find the vid in MOVIES-PROFILE-Chiefatin V3 Custom. I also have two more KerryPro Low D Customs now ready. Contact: phil@kerrywhistles.com ps the NR Chieftain vid to follow soon.
15/06/10 | Custom Nr & V3 Low Ds.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, after the resounding success of the brass bodies for the KPros, I have now got NR & V3 low D whistles available with custom brass bodies and at a special introductory price of £185. This gives you interchangeable alloy and brass bodies for the same mouthpiece. Stocks are limited atm so don't hang about. phil.
12/06/10 | Music for Phil Hardy's Tunes.
The Composer
Hi guys, I have , over the years received 100's of emails regarding the tablature/music for my tunes. Many of the tunes are now available from the Kerrywhistles site: www.kerrywhistles.com I have them for sale as a PDF (zip-file) format. Just buy the tunes in the Kerrywhistles SHOP and they will be emailed to you. Please make sure the email address you use to purchase the tunes is the one you want them sent to. If not, please let me know where to send them by sending me a separate email. phil@kerrywhistles.com A list of tunes is on the sales page. There are 14 tunes for £10. Phil.
08/06/10 | Whistle Webcast June 2010
DJ Phil.
Hi people. It is with great pleasure that I can inform you that the long awaited Whistle Webcast is now up in MP3s - WhistleWebcats 2010 june. It's amazing what one can achieve when one pulls one's finger out. I hope you can listen to the whole thing in one go. Phil.
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29/05/10 | Bras & Alloy Bodies Vid
The Maker
Hi, I have uploaded a short vid showing the difference between the alloy and brass bodies of the new KerryPro Custom Ds Look in MOVIES - PRO-FILES - Alloy & Brass Bodies. Phil
28/05/10 | KerryPro Custom Low Ds
The Maker.
Hi whistlers, I now have 3 KerryPro Custom low Ds for sale, they come with a brass body and a regular alloy body. rather than sell the two separately, I thought it would be good to put the two barrels in with the head so you have both sounds. The cost of this package is £220 inc postage worldwide. Some of you have already contacted me about these whistles, but as the deal has changed, you will need to re contact me with your order. Phil. Interested please contact: phil@kerrtywhistles.com
23/05/10 | Some Good Tips.
Phil Hardy
Hi, I get a lot of emails about beginning the whistle and how much to practice. It seems that, more and more, people are taking the whistle more seriously as an instrument and not just a " diddley widdley " thang! I will be making some video on this very subject in the next few days but for now I'd like to share this advice:see below. 1) Decide to play the instrument the absolute best you can. Commit yourself to making the tinwhistle sound as good as any other instrument you’ve ever heard. NO excuses. No “well, this isn’t a complex instrument so I don’t have to be in tune. . . or have a clear sound. . . or use correct ornamentation.” Think like that, and you’re doomed to mediocrity. Learn every single type of ornament possible, even if you later decide not to use them. See if you can play into the third octave — just because it’s there. Dream that you are standing in the middle of the UN General Assembly and the fate of world peace hangs on your ability to play “Si Bheag Si Mhor” so beautifully that every delegate will weep and vote to suspend all war for all time. LOVE THIS INSTRUMENT WITH A COMPLETE AND TOTAL PASSION. It is your voice, your soul, your communication with the universe. Any less, and you’ll always be a beginner. 2) Decide specifically what (or who) you want to sound like — be they whistle player, flautist, fiddler, piper, accordionist, whatever. Usually when starting out you’ll hear a player or two whose playing really excites you. Imitate them slavishly, try and play tunes exactly the way they’ve recorded them, copy every single variation and idiosyncrasy, become a veritable and unapologetic Musical Clone. Then – with all that floating in your brain – ignore it and do your own thing (see #6). Imitation isn’t just the sincerest form of flattery, it’s the best way to truly ingest fundamentals of style and technique and learn how the music works. . . while acquiring the perspective to eventually create your own style. 3) Be omnivorous and voracious. Read every Irish music book, magazine and tutor you encounter, listen to every Irish traditional music recording you can beg, borrow or download. I see people on the forum asking “Which tutor should I start with?” Answer: ALL OF THEM!!! Each was written from a unique perspective of an author who had a unique set of learning and performing experiences and very likely represents a unique niche along the big wide Irish Trad Style Spectrum you need to become familiar with in its entirety. Tutors are also written at different times and places and for different publishing/commercial purposes, so don’t deprive yourself of any potential knowledge contained in what might seem an out-dated or limited-scope tutorial. Remember, the greatest players of Irish music didn’t necessarily learn from other great players. . . they took in all they could and added their own individuality to create genius. 4) Get small and tight. Play frequently with one or two people at your level who are also interested in improving and exploring the tradition in depth. Mass sessions are good for getting new tunes, but you need the intimacy of a small group you can analyze material with. I mean, really analyze: listening to recordings in detail, discussing obscure technical details, comparing different tune versions. 5) Hang with older players. Even ones who don’t at first glance seem too smooth or accomplished. It’s tempting in our celebrity-saturated culture to focus on the most popular players, the most virtuosic players, the players who dominate the festival and concert circuit and who the media brings to our attention. And certainly, they’re worth listening to. But I can only say that some of the best things I learned starting out, I learned from players who were not well known or virtuosic. They maybe just had some one small thing in their style or repertoire that appealed to me and which I absorbed and may possibly even now be unconsciously passing along to somebody else. I guess that’s the way the traditition stays alive. 6) Learn how to make variations. Variation is a major element of a melodic-based music like Irish trad. Yes, you need to learn what the “standard” way of playing a tune is. . . then learn how to vary it within the tradition’s boundaries. Variation in Irish music is learning how to get really deep in the tune so that you can keep bringing out new facets that make the tune seem interesting. Variation is what makes you a unique player and enhances your ability to grow because you learn how to manipulate the structure of the tune. Variation isn’t improvisation, though some good variations can happen spontaneously. Sometimes a variation comes to you as a mistake that you correct and refine till it works. In fact, you can mark your progress as a player by the easier it becomes for you to make a variation as you play a tune, say, at a session. Looking back on my first couple years of playing Irish music on the whistle, these are the things I now see made a big difference in my development. I sincerely hope they prove of some benefit to you. Best wishes, L.E. McCullough
20/05/10 | Top Tips Section
Phil Hardy
Hi Whistlers and non Whistlers, I have had to postpone my trip to Scotland as I have put my back out and cannot drive, I will re-organize when better. I have also added a new section to the MOVIES page called TOP TIPS. here, I shall post clips of great exercises to help improve your speed and improvisation. The first clip there, is for crossing the octave at speed using a great pattern. phil
15/05/10 | Kerrywhistles in Wisconsin
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, I have sent some whistle over to Maggie Delaney so people in her area can come and try them. Here is her message: "Just put down that I am located in southeastern Wisconsin in the city of Elkhorn and then put my cell phone number of (262)348-8899 " If your are in the area and would like to try some of our products, give her a call. phil
10/05/10 | Widescreen HD
Phil Hardy
Hi all you whistling people out there. After much digging around in the bowls of the websites backend, master tech person Nick Carn has managed to tweek the internals to play widescreen and a larger format screen to boot. All vids wil arrive larger and all new vids will come in HD (high def) in future. Not only do we get a bigger picture but also much better quality audio. Here is the first click below : http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=18# Look for "Lakeside Rehearsals HD" A really big thanks to NIck...YEEEEH please send feedback. phil
07/05/10 | KerryPrto brass body Low D FS.
The Maker
I have made a one off KPro low D with a brass body...it's heavy man. interested @ £200. phil@kerrywhistles.com
05/05/10 | Prices Increase 2010
Phil Hardy
Hi whistlers, as of next monday, our prices are due to rise in line with our retailers. This is a sad fact of life and one I'm not so happy about. So, if you are/were considering purchasing one of our products, now would be a good time. phil
02/05/10 | Scottish Trip
Phil Hardy
Hi Guys, I'll will be in Glasgow on the friday 21st May ( Dunoon ) and will travel north to Fort William-Inverness-Aberdeen 24th-Dundee-Edinburgh-Glasgow City. Please get in touch if you would like me to call by en route. I will have Chieftains in all keys and KerryPro's to try. phil@kerrywhistles.com Looking forward to filming some stuff as well. If you know of a great session worth some footage..let me know. Single Malt Phil.
28/04/10 | Facebook
Phil Hardy
Hi guys and gals, I am finding myself using facebook as a quick and easy message machine, thus causing less emails to the mailing list. If you want to find out what's happening with us on a daily basis, check out our facebook page. Search Kerrywhistles Low Whistles. Also a quick mention that I am now rehearsing with Miguel for some forthcoming gigs this year. I have posted a clip of us rehearsing in the Pick of the Week section of MOVIES. The Scottish trip is also coming together, Ian McDonagh has a pile of whistles for people to try, I'll be up around the weekend of the 22nd of may. I have some really great KerryPro low Ds now made still at £185 inc postage worldwide. Interested- phil@kerrywhistles.com phil ps seeya on facebook
14/04/10 | Scottish Trip
Phil Hardy
Hi all of you north of the border. I am planning a trip to Scotland mid May. I will have a rake of whistles to try so need to start planning route. Prob Glasgow, Fort William, Inverness, then eastwards. Aberdeen then back to Glasgow. If you would like me to come to a specific place , please feel free to get in touch. I will build as many Kerry Pro low Ds as poss between now and then as I know they are very scarce in these regions. Single Malt Phil.
12/04/10 | Chieftain NR low D Tunables Sale Ends Today
Phil Hardy
2 x Chieftain NR low D tunables left, sale ends today at 6pm gmt. phil.
06/04/10 | Kerry Low Ds
Phil Hardy
Hi , we have decided to keep the price of the Kerry Low D at £50 for another week as the response has been really good. Many are benefiting from the lower price so extending it will help more people get into low Ds. phil
29/03/10 | New Look Kerry Low D's
Phil Hardy
Hi guys , just a quick reminder that the Kerry low D whistle deal at £50 will end this thursday. Phil.
25/03/10 | Hobgoblin USA
Phil Hardy
As many of you may know , we have stopped using Lark in the Morning as our US distributor, we are now working with Hobgoblin USA. They are connected with our main wholesaler here in the UK , Gremlin Music. To put many people's mind at rest who don't know them, I send an email yesterday to Gary who runs the show there about concerns that people have about mail order, here is his response: Hello Phil Thanks for writing. We love to sell your whistles. It is easy to do when people try them out. If you get an email, please forward it to Brittany at the Blaine store. She does all the mail order sales. She will contact the person and follow up with them to see that they get what they want. Her email is Hobgoblinmpls@yahoo.com She spent a year working for Hobgoblin in the UK to learn about how they do things. We get orders for whistles almost every day. We try to keep all whistles in stock all the time. The Blaine store is closed on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. We download the orders there every Wednesday to Saturday. We are open here in Red Wing Monday to Saturday. We have set up the web site so that we do not charge a credit card until we actually ship. I do not want to ever have someone’s money before I have supplied the goods. This sometimes confuses people who expect to receive a computer generated reply and a charge on their card within 10 minutes of when they send in an order. Such is the service expectation now days. Chris at Gremlin has a new plan for us to sell a lot more Chieftains to other stores in the US. If you get inquiries, please send them on to us and we will see if we can get them to buy through us. So, rest assured that when you do business with Hobgoblin USA you are getting the best quality service with Kerrywhistles blessing. All Kerrywhistle products carry a lifetime, no quibble warranty. Hobgoblin USA carry all Kerrywhistle products, including KerryPro low D F G whistles as well. So, if you have a folk store near you that do NOT carry our whistles, let Hobgoblin USA know, they may be able to supply them. All the best. Phil. Kerrywhistles low Whistles are now on Facebook
18/03/10 | Kerrywhistles on Facebook
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, just a quickie to say that Kerrywhistles is now on Facebook. Search Facebook-Kerrywhistles and become a friend. I was asked by a player to add Kerrywhistles to Facebook as a way to contact other Kerrywhistle users, it will certainly put you all in touch with each other. I will be available for chats throughout most days, a nice way to Q & A and spread info about events, new products etc. Hope you'll join us. All the best Phil
17/03/10 | The New Look Kerry Low D
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, we now have the new look Kerry low D whistle in stock, see NEWS section at www.kerrywhistles.com for pic. It is lighter by ten grammes and plays with a very small breath requirement giving a medium volume, sweet tone. We have a special price of £50 each inc postage for these until the first of April 2010. I also have 2 x KerryPro low Ds tunable for sale at £185 each, they are just brilliant players, loud with a great mellow tone. If UR interested email me at phil@kerrywhistles.com phil
05/03/10 | A new KPro low D mic test.
The Maker
Hi guys, I can't believe how many people viewed the mic test vid, over 5000 in the first 24 hours, I hope it helped. I have uploaded an new vid. http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=19# I wanted to show you what a new KerryPro low D behaved like on a mic test. This whistle plus two others and a KP F are for sale £185 each. Interested...get in touch. Phil
04/03/10 | Kimo in rehearsal 2010
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, loads happening, just uploaded a track for our rehearsal. Voice, Guitar & Bass. MOVIES- KIMO - kimo unplugged 2010 Phil.
03/03/10 | Low D Whistle Mic Test
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, sorry for the repeats....! News just in: I am currently in rehearsals for live shows in the spring and need to pick whistles that will perform in any situation. I receive many emails about mics and their usage. I have put together a vid about low D's and the mic, which sounds good to the ear, and the mic. Even I found this interesting. It"s in MOVIES - PROFILES - Low D mic test. Prof Phil.
02/03/10 | New Look Kerry
Phil Hardy
The new look Kerry head is much more streamlined and looks very cool. See site NEWS for pic. The low Whistle Tune Book is well on the way, we hope to have it available sometime this spring. There is a new JazzShow-2 up in the webcasts section of MP3s, some great stuff there put together by Alain Presencer. I have just started rehearsals with a great Swedish guitarist Prontus Rubin, we will out gigging in the spring. It will be mainly whistles and strings. Today was sunny...thank god. Phil.
16/02/10 | Hotting Up!
Phil Hardy
Well, I can start by announcing the start of work on the all new " Low Whistle Tune Book " Myself and Chief Wang aka Tony Hinnigan are putting together a low whistle tune book of all original tunes written for low whistles with a dvd to guide you through it. The Book will be published by Gremlin/Hobgoblin Music. I have put a short vid about it all in Pick of the Week in the MOVIES section - Low Whistle Tune Book. We are planning the whistle forum workshop for March. This date is to be firmed up yet, if you want one of the 10 places, email me asap. phil
14/02/10 | Kerrywhistles News
Phil Hardy
Hi guys and gals, it has been a very busy years so far here at KWL, whistle sales have continued to grow and in 2009 we crossed the 1000 V3 low D sales. I am still able to find time to build KerryPro whistles although not too many. I have 3 KerryPro low D tunable whistles for sale at £185 uk pounds each, contact me if you are interested. I have been very busy in the studio and with gigs over this last period and am happy to say that Jo and Chloe aka Away with the Faeries are now with a new guitarist and have gigs in and around London over this next period, check www.myspace.com/awtfaeries for gig details, they were also featured in the new webcast by Tony Hinnigan in the Listeners Choice show. Tony and I have also been recording new webcasts and will try to bring out a new one every week, time willing. www.tonyhinnigan.com/webasts.php Many of the shows have been remastered and now sound great. Also, Tony and I will embark on a new project of writing down our whistle toons in a book for that will be published through Hobgoblin Music. We have a good stock of great toons that I know you will enjoy. I am hoping to arrange the whistle forum at some point and hope it will become a regular thing, more on this later. Thats about it for now, only to add that my wife Bruny is now 4 months pregnant and we will have the new addition around the 18th of july, so a busy years ahead. I hope this email finds you all in fine fettle. Ciao Ragazzi.
11/01/10 | www.myspace.com/kimotrax
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, I know I have been pretty quiet musically these past months, what with Wangcasts and Away with the Faeries gigs. It was a year ago that I saw Kimo at an open mic night. I said there and then that we should get some of his stuff down. Well, we did and I'd. www.myspace.com/kimotrax I'd like to get some feedback from you all. I'll be up loading more trax as we go. Cheers all. phil ps it's not whistle stuff!
08/01/10 | Some Good News for 2010.
Phil Happy.
Hi guys and gals, my wife Bruny and I are happy to anounce that we are expecting another child in July 2010. We are all very happy, especially Ayshe who loves babies. Oh joy, more nappies, just when you thought you were out of the woods! Phil. ps, see NEWS for happy couple pic...yuk
Download MP3
05/01/10 | The New Batch 2010.
Phil Hardy
Well, we're off and running into 2010, well the Chief will be when he finally sorts his end of year return. I have 2 x KerryPro low Ds and 2 x Kerrypro Fs for sale at £185 each. Interested? phil@kerrywhistles.com We also have some Kerry Songbird high Ds in stock at the site. Thinking of making V3 tenor E & Eb fixed/tunable, any thoughts? Thanks to all of you who sent trax in for the Wanganui webcasts, keep'em coming. Laters Phil.
02/01/10 | Happy New Webcasts Everyone!
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, well it's the start of a new anus, or is that annus I can never remember, anyway as Chief Wangs producer, I have come up with a great idea. I would like to do some " Listeners Choice" shows and would need your fav mp3 for consideration by the Chief himself. He can then compile a show from your trax and giving you a mench at the same time. A simple note as to why you like or have selected said track would also be helpful. Sorry but one will be limited to one track/mp3. I think that will be a bit of fun to start the new year. Lets make it a good one. All mp3s to: tony@tonyhinnigan.com or phil@kerrywhistles.com Phil.
29/12/09 | KerryPro Low D & F
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, just a quickie. Just before xmas is was selling a Kpro D & F. Some people got in touch about them. Their emails have vanished from my pc, so could those people who were interested please get back in touch. Cheers. Phil. Happy new year y'all.
23/12/09 | Have a Cool Yule.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys and gals, whilst the Chief has wendled his merry way to Scotland for the holidays and has left me holding the fort, I would like to take this opp to wish you all a very cool yule and to thank all of you for all your feedback and kind words. Next year will see a lot more webcasts and some new music from us and hopefully a new toon book for whistles. In January we will go ahead with the whistle forum, we will give out the date early in the new year. The Kerrywhistles on line shop will start processing again on Jan 4th 2010, any orders placed between now and then will be sent on or after said date. So have a good one and we will pick up again in the new year. All the best Phil Bah Humbug from the Chief.
13/12/09 | Last of 2009
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, I have a couple of unsold KerryPro whistles for a quick sale. 1 x KP low D tunable 1 x KP alto F tunable At £185 uk pounds each. These were made for people who have not got back to me so rather than have them sitting around unplayed I thought to sell them. Interested phil@kerrywhistles.com
07/12/09 | Whistle Packs
Phil Hardy
Hi people of the whistle. I now have a new batch of Chieftain Low D tunable whistle packs. They are a great value pack featuring a low D with extra E & Eb bodies. It has taken some time for the packs to catch on but more and more are now buying them. This is an ideal xmas pressie for the low whistle person and the new batch of NR Chieftain whistles are just the best ever. See site NEWS for latest pic. Phil.
03/12/09 | KerryPro Low D FS
Phil Hardy
Hi , I may not have time to build any more KPros before xmas as I have a lot of Chieftain oreders to complete. I have 1 x KerryPro low D tunable left if anyone is interested. phil@kerrywhistles.com The price is £185 inc postage. Phil
29/11/09 | Shocked!
Phil Hardy
Hi guys and gals, I had an old NR Chieftain sent back the other week for a stuck tuning slide, this can happen now and again and is an easy job to rectify. However, the whistle that was sent back defies belief. The whistle must have been used a lot BUT never cleaned, thus rendering the tuning slide to become fused with the collet. But what I saw in the mouthpiece window looked like a nuclear experiment gone wrong...see site NEWS for pic. If you are the owner of any Kerrywhistle products, please keep them clean, a simple wash with warm soapy water and a dry will keep them in tip top condition for life. Phil.
29/11/09 | Ormiston High D whsitle review
Phil Hardy
...sorry about 2 emails today . Just uploaded the George Ormiston high D review in MOVIES PROFILES. http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=19 Phil
26/11/09 | Hobgoblin Music Minnestota
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, especially you guys in the USA. For many years Kerrywhistles products were distributed by Lark in the Morning in California....they are now a daed duck and have failed so we no longer deal with them....I am sad to say. We have had a very long and wonderful relationship with Gremlin/hobgoblin Music here in the UK, they now have a store and mail out system in Minnesota USA. Yippee!!! http://www.stoneyend.com I found a post from one of their customers and was thrilled that it had finally happened. see below. "Well, I just got my early present from Santa: a triple pack of Chieftain low's from Hobgoblin Music in Minnesota: Low D, Low Eb, and Low E. Three bodies, one head joint". First, let me say a HUGE thank you to the folks at Hobgoblin - once I decided on what weapons of choice I desired and placed my order for the Chieftain triple set, I had them in my hands in 48 hours. The staff at Hobgoblin was extremely helpful and courteous, and I highly recommend them to anyone. I will be their newest "repeat customer". This has made things very easy, they will never be out of stock of our products. 48 hours turn around is as good as it gets. AND they are nice, friendly and INFORMED people. Here in the UK we are spoiled for choice, not all counties are the same. So, HORAH for Hobgoblin Minnesota. Phil.
23/11/09 | OFF topic ...maybe!
Phil Hardy
Morning Campers... I'll have a nice camper van up for sale very soon so before I go and part exchange for another I wanted to let you guys know it will be available. UK only. Interested, for more info and price email: phil@kerrywhistles.com
21/11/09 | Loads of News.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, where do I start? Webcasts. The Chief and I have been quite prolific this last few weeks with a number of webcasts now up at: www.tonyhinnigan.com I hope the fun we have making them is balanced by the fun you have listening to them. Even if you are somewhat narrow in your listening tastes, as I have been in the past, give yourself a chance to try on some new stuff. I trust the Chief's choice and have been turned on to some music I would not ordinarily have chosen to give a listen to. Personally, I find listening to the whole show in one go very rewarding as the more time goes by I realize that I have been on an incredible journey through some interesting musical experiences, it may not be to everyones taste but I bet there will be something in it for you. So, I hope you give them a go. On another note, When at the Hinnigan abode the other night we video'd another review. This time it was a comparison of some of the most exclusive and expensive wooden whistles on the market. I have posted this vid on both mine and the Chiefs sites. On mine, it's in PROFILES and on the Chief's it's in the old grey whistle test. The tab is " Blackwood Whistles " I hope you find it interesting. The pic below is of said whistles I also have some KerryPro whistles for sale. 2 x Low D and 2 x alto F, all tunable and costing £185 in postage. Interested: phil@kerrywhistles.com On a musical front, I have been very busy completing the recording of Kimo's new CD. I am now at the mixing stage and look forward to the release. We don't have a title for the album yet but I have registered with Itunes so it can become available to the gen public. I'll post again when there is a clip to listen to. Away with the Faeries have some gigs in december so if you are around check their : www.myspace.com/awtfaeries ..for dates. Thats about it for now ship mates, as we all prepare for xmas, my little girl Aysha is getting very excited. All the best for now. Phil.
13/11/09 | The Chief is Away with the Faeries
The Producer!
Hi pop pickers. Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away.... no really, I had the honor of the Chief's company insomuch that he was in the studio recording his latest webcast entitled "Things that Warble" www.tonyhinnigan.com Look in WEBCASTS After an agreeable few hours of hilarity and a few slurps, the girls from Away with the faeries came in to record some unplugged versions of their toons. I was out of one hot seat and in another as I had to go from the production side of the studio to the artist side as I was playing guitar form the girls. We had finished a CD with all the bells and whistles of production but found that actually playing the unplugged version sounded much better. So, happily the Chief agreed to sit in the producers hot seat and direct the proceedings. the tracks that were recorded will be available on their myspace shortly. Needless to say The Chief was very impressed with the girls vocal abilities and will come again to direct the proceedings...watch this space....or should I say watch www.myspace.com/awtfaeries Phil see NEWS section for pic.
13/11/09 | More KPros for sale.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, i have another batch of KPro whistles for sale. There are 2 low Ds and 2 alto Fs. All are tunable and £185 stg each. Interested. phil@kerrywhistles.com The pic below is one of the low Ds.
08/11/09 | Sorry about that!
Phil..much happier now..Hardy
On a much happier note,The Chief and I would like to hold an open forum on whistles and other blown woodwind here at the KerryMedia studios at some point very soon. Talk whistles,toons,movies. making, playing etc....and have some tuition on various whistles. Should be a good day. I will hold more of these forums with other major players in the new year. I have places for 15 at a squeeze. If you would like to be involved, beginner or pro, get in touch asap as this will fill in a instant. First come first served I am affraid...no exceptions!! Dates to be arranged.. sometime in December 2009. The day will be in 2 halves with time for lunch and a good chat to myself and The Chief. It will be free to all who come, starting at 10.30am , lunch at !2.30 resume at 2pm and finish @ 4pm. Main line station very close. Please send any Q,s you may want answered to: phil@kerrywhistles.com tony@tonyhinnigan.com Phil. ps, filming will take place for broadcast on the internet and promotional purposes.
04/11/09 | KerryPros FS
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, many of you have shown interest in the previous batch of KPro whistles, sadly they were all sold straight away. Happily I have had time to build some more, I have 2 KP Fs and 1 KPro low D now for sale at £185 each. I have posted a pic of the 2 Fs on the NEWS page on the site. If you are interested please get in touch. phil@kerrywhistles.com Phil. ps, Chief Wanganui is in the studio tomorrow for another webcast show and to review some more whistles.
29/10/09 | Lark in the Morning!
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, especially you people in the good ol' USA. Many years ago when I first started in the whistle business, I was doing business with a guy called Mickie Zeakley. He ran a company called "Lark in the Morning", you may have heard of them. We sold a pile of whistles to them over the years and had a great relationship with them. They may have had a rep but my dealings with them was always straight and fun. Sadly Mickie sold the business some years ago and the new owners have ruined the business completely. So much so that I haven't been able to distribute whistles in the US form nearly two years, waiting for them to get their act together. Well.. I finally had enough of waiting for another order and emailed Mickie directly to ask if he knew what was happening to his much beloved company. Mickie wrote back and said that they have sold tow of the three shops and are only buying in goods made in the US and selling them at discount. I feel sorry to see a great business fail as a result of bad management . So all you guys and gals that want Chieftain Whistles, you can get them direct from us here in the UK whilst we look for another wholesaler. www.kerrywhistles.com/store.php Business has been great this years and on last years figure we sold 710 V3 low Ds alone in 2008. I can't believe they have done so well. So a big thanks to all you people who bought them. THANKS Phil.
27/10/09 | KerryPro Batch
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, it's not often that I make a batch of whistles but time is on my side atm. See site NEWS for pic. Phil.
18/10/09 | Aysha Whistleing
A Proud Dad
Here is a pic of my little angel playing a whistle. I love this pic. Not to sure what the whistle is!
18/10/09 | My Current Favs
Phil Hardy
John Sintd Oz Vambrace ?
15/10/09 | Oz Whistles Unite.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, yesterday I had a party for my 52nd birthday, The Chief and Simom Barnett were there with their Oz Whistles high Ds. It was really great to get three Oz Whistle high Ds together and compare them. Needless to say they were all different but equally all great whistles. See pics on site NEWS. phil
13/10/09 | More Pics of Overtons
Phil Hardy
Here is the second pic from the top end. From this angle you can see how the mouthpiece has changed over the years.
13/10/09 | My New Gidgee from Oz Whistles
Phil Hardy
Just received my new Oz Whistles high D. Will film another review very soon.
12/10/09 | Overtons through the years.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, whilst going through a flight case full of whistles yesterday it occured to me that I had four Overton low D whsitles. So what you may ask! Well, I was thinking that I may be the only person on the planet to have a low D whistle from every decade that Bernard built them. I have my own two, one from the late 80s which I bought from Hobgoblin Music in Crawley W. Sussex, this whistle was not very well built and played badlly which set me off to find the maker..which I did. Bernard saw the whistle and agreed to make me another at trade price, this whistle was my second low D which was built in the 90s . The third whistle was an origional Overton from the early 70s owned by a guy from north of the border which he sent to me for repair and is identical to Davey Spillanes low D that I have played. At the time this whistle seemed unrepairable so I sent him a relacement. After some time I came across the 70s whistle and had another go at repairing it with success, it now plays as good as new. The forth whistle made after 2000 was given to me by a student for a swap for a Chieftain NR low D tunable, this low D was very out of tune on the bell note and still is. This now gives me an Overton low D from each decade that Bernard was building in. There is a pic in the NEWS section of all 4 whistles, I have got more pics and will post them soon. I am also going to make a video show the merits and pitfalls of all 4 whistles with Tony Hinnigan at some point soon. This will make for very interesting viewing for those interested in Overtons. So, if you have an Overton low D from each decade or know someone who does get in touch and we can start a club! Phil
10/10/09 | New Hinnigan Webcast
The Producer
As I sit here listening to the new Hinnigan Show I feel that i should share with you that it is indeed up at: tonyhinnigan.com ...in the webcast section. All things blown is the order of the day, featuring amoung others , Mile Davies....niccce! I would totally recommend listening to the whole show at once...it's a great musical journey every time. Sit back, relax and enjoy. TP
09/10/09 | Free Kerry Low Ds.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, to encourage others to play low whistles we are giving a Kerry low D plastic head away free with every Chieftain V3 low D tunable purchased from the Kerrywhistles website store. This offer ONLY applies to the online shop and NOT in the retail shops globally. The price charged includes postage worldwide. The offer will only last until jan !st 2010. Phil.
08/10/09 | Away with the Faeries Gig
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,if you are in London on the 12th October, The Faeries are playing at The Half Moon in Putney at 8.50pm. We are not on for that long some if you are coming to meet the girls and hear them, get there early. Phil.
24/09/09 | Many Thanks.
Phil Hardy
Many thanks to all the people who took advantage of the Kerry Songbird low D offer, I hope you all enjoy these lovely whistles. A great big sorry to all of you who were late and missed out on the deal, these offers only happen every now and again so you have to be fast off the mark. The Kerry Songbird low Ds were not made in large numbers so all the people who have them have a limited edition whistle. i will do some figures and post exactly how many were made. At the moment we are continuing with the high Ds but are out of stock until we can get some machine time for the, V3s being the whistle that takes most of the machine time these days. That said, I am managing to get some KerryPro whistles built and will keep them coming as time will allow. I have decided not to rename them Phil Hardy Whistles but may add the epithet "Heritage" as the design is from the low whistle that I was taught to make 16 years ago and I feel this should be marked in some way. Phil.
23/09/09 | Chieftain Alto Gs IN STOCK
Phil Hardy
We now have plenty of Chieftain alto Gs back in stock. We also have 2 x Kerry Songbird low D tunables left to clear @ £100 each. I have had time to build 5 x KerryPro F tunables and 1 x KerryPro G tunable all selling for £185. If you are interested email: phil@kerrywhistles.com Phil.
21/09/09 | Another great whistle stolen.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, my friend and fellow whistler Simon Barnett got hold of my Oz whistles high D and ran off with it. Before doing so he allowd me to record for posterity his feelings about it. If you are in any doubt about what high D whistle is the best know to man, I guess it still has to be the Oz whistles. See Simon Barnett play and review it in PRO-FILES www.ozwhistles.com Phil
04/08/09 | Guitar Session
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I just filmed myself practicing a new toon fro KIMO so I wouldn't forget it. When I watched it back it was very relaxing so I posted it in the KIMO section of MOVIES. www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=32 Also I am now on facebook if anyone wants to play. Hoping to catch up with The Chief this week for an updat interview and show...stay toooned! Phil
04/08/09 | YES, it's official!
The Producer
After a lengthy conversation with The Chief we agreed to meet this friday for a video session and show. I now have a portable pro-tools which means I have a whole studio in me ruck sack. The outcome of this meeting will be posted once we have both recovered. For all of you musical intellectuals out there I strongly recommend : http://www.tonyhinnigan.com/news.php
30/07/09 | AWTFaeries Fan base
Phil Hardy
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Away-With-The-Faeries/103256965487 Well, the CD is ready for mixing and should be out in the fall / autumn. The Fareies are very excited and want everyone to be fans and support them thus the link above. They should be out giging in the new year so stay tooned. Phil and the girls
27/07/09 | KIMO Rehearsal 2009
The Bassist
Hi guys, I thought it might be a nice idea to invite you all into one of KIMO's rehearsals to show you how a song turns from being just an idea into a proper toon. So go to www.kerrywhistles.com/movies and look in the KIMO section for KIMO Rehearsal 2009 and see a pre-production session in progress. Phil and the crew
26/07/09 | Xerfa
Phil Hardy
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x38kty_abrahams-reel_music Cool...very cool! \ Phil
24/07/09 | KerryPro Low D FS
Phil Hardy
I have 1 x KerryPro low D tunable for sale at £185. Interested? phil@kerrywhistles.com
19/07/09 | Making it up.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, I was in the store yesterday and picked out a G whistle that had not been finished. I started to play it as a random check and a little toon started to come out which I quite liked . So, I went into the studio , set up the vid camera and put it staight down without thinking about it and just let a toon emerge. This is how most toons arrive, just an idea somewhere out of the ether and after I had finished I left it and half an hour later could not remember a single note....lucky I filmed it. You will see all the mistakes and twists and turns of ideas as it goes along, all it needs now is a bit of refineing and the toon is established. I have decided to call it: " You couldn't make it up " http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=22# Also the site is undergoing a bit of a shake up. I have removed the info section as we don't have much need for it now. I am looking to replace it with another section so if you have any ideas about a new section and what it could contain, please get in touch. Hope you like the little clip and I hope it inspires all of you to write your own toons...it's what whistling is all about: BEING CREATIVE Phil
16/07/09 | Back from me Hols!
Phil Hardy
Hi all you whistleing gypsies out there. I have been on the road for 2 weeks exploring the south west of England and very lovely it is too. La famille und mois spent most of the time on beaches and campsites overlooking beaches. A most agreeable time was had by all...even Doggit Now and agian we would see rain and retreat to the trusty camper van where I would entertain the troops with whistle ditties and made up rubbish. On seeing a bit of film of me playing an old V3 I was amazed at how mellow it had become. See for youselves. V3 in the van http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=18 Even alloy get mellow in time...was it the vans influence? Also a plug for the best campsite ever. The Tregora Campsite, Gerrans near Portscatho Cornwall. View overlooking the whole bay...mmmmmmmmm! More soon phil.
16/07/09 | Sorry!
Idiot!
That should have been: http://www.coastalfarmholidays.co.uk/ Treloan Campsite. Having too good a time to remember the name. A great holiday if you have kids. P
10/06/09 | KerryPro Whistles FS
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, after a spell in the studio with AWTF and KIMO I have now managed to build some KerryPro whistles. I have 4 x Low D and 2 x alto F all tunable. All whistles are priced at £185, I was thinking to price them at £200 but as we are in crunch time I felt that that was too much. Interested? phil@kerrywhistles.com So, did any of you watch the No Return video, if so what did you think? Also more from the Faeries @ www.myspace.com/awtfaeries Phil.
01/06/09 | The People - No Return
Phil Hardy
So enraged have we all been about our UK MP's expenses scandal that Kimo, a singer that I am currently producing, and myself wrote a song commenting on the current situation. We now have it on YouTube and have called the project " The People " which seemed apt. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZQGQGovY7s I will also put sa copy on the Kerrywhistles site at some poiint. We asked Jo and Chloe from AWTFaeries to come in for the backing vocals and we featured them in the vid..what a splendid job they did. The video was shot and cut together very fast to get it out before the MEP's elections on thurday. If we don't vote them out, it will carry on just the same. I hope you enjoy the song and Kimo, who will have a CD out around xmas. Anyone who shares these views, or for more info about Kimo please drop us a line. Please email the link to as many people as you can. Many Thanks Phil & the Crew
01/06/09 | No Return.
Phil Hardy
If you want to see a version that doesn't run out on lip sync, check the kerrywhistles MOVIES under KIMO. www.kerrywhistles.com/movies Youtube can really suck sometimes. phil.
24/05/09 | Witchwood Festival Cheltenham 2009
Festival Phil
Hi guys, it's festival time. I am planning to be at the Witchwood festival Cheltenham next weekend with en famille. Is anyone else going? I should have some whistles with me for people to try. This will be Aysha's first festival so lets hope the weather is good. Phil
20/05/09 | New Track
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, wee, things are gaining pace now with AWTFaeries. The girls have now got 3 tracks up at: www.myspace.com/awtfaeries We will be shooting a video promo soon and would like some ideas from you guys as to what you would like to see in it. away-with-the-faeries@live.com Also , i have some KerryPro Ds and Fs for sale at £150, they will be going back up to £200 from june. Phil.
13/05/09 | AWTF Have Landed!
Phil Hardy
www.myspace.com/awtfaeries New track by Away with Faeries now up, gigs on the way, CD /downloads on the way. The girls would love to hear from anyone learning the whistle as they fully intend to put some female sass into the instrument. These girls love their music and performing and work so hard, so any support makes it all worth while...give some love people!!! You can contact them at: away-with-the-faeries@live.com Phil
10/05/09 | Lunasa Gig
Phil Hardy
Hi all you Lunasa fans, I was with them last night in the Hammaersmith Irish Centre. They had Tola Custy on fiddle which makes a nice change as Sean was unable to do the gig. I filmed some of the gig and will post it up in the CINEMA section later today and also will post a clip in the LUNASA section of MOVIES. Some new toons and some old favs. Kev was on good form as well. Enjoy. Phil ps I have 2 x KerryPro Fs available.( £150 each ) Interested ? philhardy@live.com
05/05/09 | Track on Myspace
Phil Hardy
Hi folkie people. We have just uploaded a new track on: www.myspace.com/awtfaeries The track was written last year by myself and Katy Butler, Away with the Faeries have taken it on and done a sterling job. It's called " Cry Baby Cry ". We hope you like it... it has some nice whistles on it. We are playing tomorrow night at The Horns in Watford so if you want to see the girls live , come along you'll be very welcome. Phil and the Band.
29/03/09 | KerryPro Fs
Phil Hardy
I now have 2 x KerryPro F tunable whistles for sale @ £150 each inc post worldwide. If you are interested please email me @ : phil@kerrywhistles.com These whistles don't hang around for very long so first come first served. Phil.
27/03/09 | Jo & Chloe Vids
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, just before I upload the next video of the Jo & Chloe tutorials, I had a look at the stats for the downloads and it seems that many 100s of you are downloading the material. Yet, up to now I have had no feedback at all.... not one single email telling me if you like it or not... this is indeed very strange as most other content get a bag load of emails. So, let me know one way or the other as I'd like tyo know if we are on the right track. Cheers me Hartie's Phil
20/03/09 | http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewProfile&friendID=86613720
Phil Hardy
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewProfile&friendID=86613720
10/03/09 | Jo & Chloe Lesson 4
Phil Hardy
Hi guys & gals,we have just finished this weeks rehearsal and the girls have decided to call the band " Away with the Faeries ". Whatever! The rehearsal went very well and we also recorded a whistle lesson. You'll find it in the usual place. Phil and the faeries!!!........
06/03/09 | Beginners Lessons 3
Phil Hardy
Hi Guys, judging by the responce to last weeks whistle lesson there will be many looking forward to this weeks instalment. Sadly Jo could not be with us due to illness so it was just Chloe and yours truly. Hope you get something from it. Jo & Chloe Lesson 3 http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=15
24/02/09 | Beginners Lessons
Phil Hardy
Hi guys and gals, I hope you are all enjoying the new year. I am just back from Ireland after a break of four years. Whilst in Ireland I decided to start teaching whistle. I have been asked many time over the years to run classes and now I have the space and time to do so. I have two singers in my new band who wanted to learn whistle so we take one hour of rehearsal time and I teach them whistle. Jo and Chloe are both great singers but are complete beginners on the whistle. I have video of todays second lesson which is now up on the www.kerrywhistles.com site in the MOVIES section under TUTORIALS. You will find the video called "Jo & Chloe Lesson 2" They are using F whistles to help them get used to the pipers grip and stretch. No edits just the lesson. I'll be posting their lesson every week to build up an online simple coarse. If you are a complete beginner or have just started playing the whistle and would like lessons please get in touch asap as classes will be limited to 10 people per class. phil@kerrywhistles.com Classes will start in the spring. Phil.
09/12/08 | Revisited Reviews
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, I have had some very possitive reviews for the new CD and would like to share them with you. Superb musicianship and varied and sensitive arrangement make it impossible to dismiss this as "generic Celtic" It's one to enjoy yourself and to play to your non folkie freinds. Folk London It is music to get up. There is great playing on fast-paced show-stoppers as well as haunting airs. Folkworld.eu (Germany) If you like Irish-style flute and whistle -- and even if you don't -- you'll love this record. Phil Hardy displays his talent in this delicious recording. No voice, just his tunes and some excellent production. CWR FolkNews Kernow Even if whistles are not your thing you'll find plenty to enjoy in this excellent compilation of previously-issued instrumentals by the man who not only plays the instrument with such skill, but also makes them for some of the finest whistle players in the business. ... what impressed me most about this album is the clever way that Phil Hardy tackles stlyles from other countries, in particular "Mrs Murphy's Camel" with its Arabic rhythms, the Australian feel to "The Magpies Tale, the lively tropical Kwela sound in "Paddy's Paradise" and the traditional Peruvian tune "Wainnu" ... this highly recommended collection. (JM) Folk Diary Nov 08 Phil.
08/11/08 | REVISITED CD
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I have now put my new CD Revisited up for sale in the Kerrywhistles on line SHOP. It comes with a 16 page booklet and all the tracks are remastered. The cost includes worldwide postage. Phil.
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10/10/08 | Dual
Philu Hardyu
Hi pop pickers, I have just been sent the new CD from DUAL,a group of trad muso's including Julie Fowis and her hubby Eamon Doorley with Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh ...pheeuuw..& Ross Martin. This is a true masterpiece of celtic/gaelic fusion. Whistles abound, bazukis and vocals to die for. Go and buy a copy and have a few pints, sit back and enjoy. Dreams are made of this. phfuil Htarffdied
05/10/08 | Old Dogs & New Tricks.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, I met up with Mike, John Jo and Ed last night in Hammersmith. They played a geat set with some unusual twists. Mike and Ed were singing songs and Mike and John Jo were playing Mandolin and Banjo. John Jo also played Mandolin and Mike swapped with Ed on guitar whle Ed played mandola. What a night, who said you can't teach old dogs new tricks. It was extemely refreshing to see such talent change things around and add a new twist to the set. I look forward to Mike and Ed making a vocal CD. The whole gig is up at: www.kerrywhistles.com Look in the CINEMA section under Mike John Jo & Ed 2008 Phil.
12/09/08 | Revisited OUT NOW
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, I am happy to say that my new CD " Revisted " is out now and available from just about everywhere.The best prices are from the internet, if you google the title you'll find plenty of options. Hope you like it. phil.
10/09/08 | KerryPro's @ Hobgoblin UK.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, a short note to say that KerryPro low D's are now available from Hobgoblin Music shops in London and Birmingham. So if you would like to try one out these are the places to go.They also have stock at the Gremlin warehouse. Phil.
04/08/08 | The 5 Kerrywhistles Low D's
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, to make choosing a Kerrywhistles low D easier I have made a short video demonstrating all of our low D's This will give you the chance to see and hear all the low D's on one video.I have used the same tune on all the whistles so you can compare the sounds. You can find the video in: http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=19 Look for "Kerrywhistles Low D's" I hope you find it helpful and all whistles shown are in stock. All the best. phil.
01/08/08 | Revistited
Phil Hardy
Hi fellow whistles, a few words about my new CD release. http://www.hobgoblin.co.uk/products/GM0208D.htm I have put together a compilation of my fav tracks and put them out on Hobgoblin Music. The CD is called Phil Hardy Revisited. The tracks are from my last 4 Cds chosen by myself. The Cd represents the end of the whistle chapter of my recording life as I am now into writing and producing a more varied selection of music. I am currently working with The Katy Butler Band who are now under management and have a record deal, so all hands to the pumps to get it finished by the end of the year. This is all very exciting and also very time consuming but I will attempt to get more up on the site before long. So, I hope you like the Cd and watch out for The Katy Butler Band next year. Phil.
20/07/08 | New KerryPros Available.
Phil Hardy
Hi Guys, just back from my holidays. I have now got 4 x KerryPro Low D tunable whistles and 1 x KerryPro Alto G tunable whistle. All are for sale at £150 each inc post worldwide. The G is has a very sweet tone and the low D's are rich in tone and great back pressure ( very similar to Mr McGoldricks ) Interested in any of these whistle . Contact: phil@kerrywhistles.com
23/06/08 | NR Chieftain Low D Tunables.
Phil Hardy
We now have NR Chieftain tunable whistles back in stock in the on-line SHOP. This also means we can offer the low whistle packs with tenor E and Eb bodies again. Also I will be at this years Mesquer (Britanny)and Saint Chartiers muisc festivals in France next month with a pile of whistles for sale. I'll have NR Chieftains,Kerry Songbird low and high whistles and some KerryPro's. Hopefully I'll also have some copies of my new CD if I get them from the printers in time. R.I.P Bernard Overton.
12/06/08 | What Whistle-Julie Fowlis?
Phil Hardy
I just noticed a thread on C&F about what whistles Julie Fowlis uses. Well the answer is that she uses an Abell high Eb and a set of Chieftains that were supplied some months ago. Maybe somebody could post the info on the Julie Fowlis thread. Cheers. phil.
10/06/08 | KerryPro Alto G tunable FS.
Phil Hardy
The previous sale fell through so I still have this lovely G for sale at £150 UK pounds. Interested . phil@kerrywhistles.com
27/04/08 | MASQ 2000
Phil Hardy
Wilst rumaging through some old videos this morning I came across a tape of myself and Chief Waganui playing at the KashmirKlub with a singer Tara MacDonald in 2000. I had forgotten all about this gig and that I had written all those songs for her, some of which I may revive and re-use. It is amazing to think we could get on a stage with one giutar a cello and a voice...thats it! I have posted the gig in the CINEMA section inder MASQ. You'll see Tony with long hair...very amusing!! He even smiled at one point!!....not at me I might add. Phil.
23/04/08 | FS Roland VS 1680 Digital Recorder.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, I have two Roland VS 1680 digital recording workstaions and want to sell one of them.Check below for details. http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/jun98/articles/vs1680.html It has had very little use and is in great condition. They are great for home recording and very user friendly. I have had years of fun with these machines but have now upgraded to Pro-Tools. I would prefer a UK buyer if poss. Interested ,get in touch. phil@kerrywhistles.com See News for pic. Below is a track recorded on this machine Phil.
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03/04/08 | KerryPro G Tunable FS.
Phil Hardy
I have a KerryPro G tunable whistle for sale at £120.(G above low D) It has a very sweet tone and is nice to play. Interested...get in touch. phil@kerrywhistles.com
02/04/08 | Kerry Songbird Whistles
Phil Hardy
As a result of the success with the Kerry Songbird Low & High D's we have decided to distribute them through Gremlin Music UK. This means they will be avaiable from some of the Hobgoblin shops. London, Bristol, Leeds, Wadebridge & Birmingham. They will have stock as of next week. If you are on the continent you can request your local dealer to stock them if they have a n acount with gremlin Music...which most do. Phil.
30/03/08 | R.I.P Ollie.
Phil Hardy
I have just been informed by Chief Wanganui that the great musician/producer/engineer Ollie Nicholls was killed lats nightby a hit and run driver,Ollie was the son of the great jazz trombone player Nutty Nicholls and will be greatly missed by all. I will post the session with Ollie engineeringTony on thier last session. R.I.P Ollie.
18/03/08 | The Jazz Webacast
Phil "Toots" Hardy
Hi all you Beatnics,as promised I haev now uploaded the Jazzcast in the WEBCAST section.This weeks guest presenter is Alain Presencer, an old mate for many years. He has lived 10 lives in one lifetime and still has the energy of a man half his age , 54 apparently! Check his site for more info: www.alainpresencer.com He is also the father of the world famous horn player Gerard. www.gerardpresencer.com If you have never got in to Jazz then take an hour and listen to some of the best around you won't be dissappointed. http://www.kerrywhistles.com/mp3.php?group=29 Alain has also spoken in depth about Tibet as he is an authority on the region and culture,you may find what he has to say quite riveting. http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=18 We'll be doing more shows in the near future,plaese let us know what you think buy email , you know the address. Laters Alligators!
12/03/08 | Wonder upon Wonder!
Phil Hardy
Hi fellow whistlers,some news just in. John McCusker is playing a world tour with Mark Knopfler of Dire Straights and using a pile of Chieftain whistles.It's like the old Titanic days with the Chief demanding every key under the sun,John needed everything and stuff I didn't know I had in the flight case. I must say a big THANKS to John for playing on a new track of mine this evening...what a pro! I wish John all the best for the tour and I hope to see them at the Albert Hall London in may. I have now started recording toons for the new cd which I hope to have ready for the end of this year. Thats about it for now. Phil.
09/03/08 | Julie Fowlis Interview and Tracks
Phil Hardy
Hi pop pickers,I was with Julie Fowlis last night in Lough borough at their annual folk festival. She palyed a blinding set and gave a great interview. She is known mostly for her singing but her whistle playing is well worth checking out, another female whistler on the block. The interview will be in the CINEMA under INTERVIEWS...funnily enough! Phil.
07/03/08 | A One Off.
Phil Hardy
I am selling a Chieftain OS mezzo high D with a brass insert. (see pic in NEWS section)) It's a lovely whistle and a one off. I am asking £99. Interested? email: phil@kerrywhistles.com
05/03/08 | More Webcast's
Phil Hardy
I am planning some new webcast's for this spring,first up is Alain presencer,father of Gerard the amazing jazz trumpeter.He is a wild and crazy guy who has a great love of jazz.This will be a very interesting show and will be recorded on the 18th this month.Below is a bit about Alain. Phil ps:see NEWS for pic Alain Presencer, a Canadian who lives and works in England, is a unique artist. He is a famous Tibetan Anthropologist whose recording of The Singing Bowls of Tibet has sold over a million albums since it was made in 1980. He is a well known and published poet (five books and 10 children's). In the children's musical Hippos and Bogies, he composed the music, wrote the lyrics and performed in it successfully in London's west end to rave reviews. His solo ethnic concerts that he has given over the many years are legendary. He was an Operatic Tenor who performed in operas, in principal star roles. He has written lyrics for the rock artist Alan Ross's album Restless Nights, RCA Victor. He has worked in films and has collaborated with some of the most famous names in films as script writer and composer. He is a fellow of the Royal Asiatic Society, and continues to perform, write and compose successfully with his friend and colleague Michael Paul at Abraxus Studios, England http://alainpresencer.com/
02/03/08 | KerryMobile.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,Kerrywhistles have now purchased a motorhome and will be travelling all over europe this summer with whistles to try and buy. I will have all the usual stuff and a mix of KerryPro's and secondhand stuff as well. I will be at the Mesquer and Saint Chartiers festivals in july and will let you know what others when I have dates. If you would like us to pass buy let me know where you are so we can plan our route. I also have a s/hand Kerry Songbird for sale in the s/hand section in SHOP. It's up for £50. Also a reminder that ANYONE can advertise there for FREE and it has proved very successful so far. Phil.
15/02/08 | The Lunasa Years
Phil Hardy
I have posted a collection of clips entitled " The Lunasa Years " in Pick of the Week in the MOVIES section. It covers Lunasa from 2001-5. Phil.
14/02/08 | Julie Fowlis
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,just before Celtic Connections I had the pleasure of sending Julie Fowlis some whistles.It's so nice to see more female players in the spotlight. If you are in the UK and want to see her with the Scotish band Dochas,they'll be playing at the BIg Whistle weekend: http://www.themet.biz/diary/?strand=Big+Whistle+Weekend Also on the bill are Cherish the Ladies and Flook. Should be good. Phil.
05/02/08 | Celtic Connections 2008
Phil McHardie
Ochy The Noo! I am just back from a delightful long weekend in Scotland and had the oppotunity to take in a couple of gigs at the Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow. First up was a meeting with Mike McGoldrick at the famous Babbity Bowsters Pub in which there was a rollocking session..nice one lads and lassies!I tried a variety of single malts and Mike had a Coke..no fun when you have to play a gig and be serious. After a merry afternoon with John Riddle at the bar we wandered over to the Royal Concert Halls to see Cora Smyth and her band.A nice blend of Irish and swing...what a nice girl,she really got the crowd going.I have posted some of the show in the CINEMA section under CELTIC.You can check her site at: www.corasmyth.com The next and most surprising entertainment was Fraser Fifield and Nedyalko Nedyalkov with a fusion of both quartets.Ned hails from Bulgaria so the musical fusion was out of this world...I sat there stunnned at the virtuosity of the Caval player.Some of this gig can be seen in the CINEMA section uncer WORLD.Needless to say Fraser was on top for as you will see.They are taking this group out on the road through feb 2008 so check www.fraserfifield.co for tour dates...unmissable. Sadly I had to miss Cappercallie as they were on way too late and I had to be back in Gurock for the midnight ferry.Catch ya next time guys. The following day I was staying by Loch Eck in Argylshire were we found a wonderfull hostilery called "The Whistlefield".Here they have views to die for and boast 100 varieties of single malts....say no more! After and marvelous meal...they even cater for veggies like me,they tell me that they have a monthy session on the first friday of the month which by all accounts is well worth getting up there for.They have great accomodation,posh and a bunkhouse so if you want a great break anytime of the year,get in touch at: www.whistlefield.com tel:01369 860440 email: whistlefield@btconnect.com Check multimap Scotland PA23 8SG They are a very friendly bunch and we felt more than welcome. I have put a couple of small clips of the gigs in the PICK of the WEEk section as well. Just to mention again that we have a secondhand whistle section for antone to sell their unwanted whistle free of charge on the SHOP page,the whistles I have put up have already gone so it does work. That about it for now.Chief Waganui will be back in the studio this week to record more on his new CD and I have my mother in law to stay for 10 day..God help us! Slante Phiol
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28/01/08 | Secondhand Whistles/Instruments
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I now have a secondhand whistles section in the Kerrywhistles SHOP area. To enter the ADS area you'll find it in the bar in RED near the top of the page. http://www.kerrywhistles.com/store.php You'll need to register,once you have done that you can advertise as many /few items as you want. This is a free service but we have the right to remove any inappropriate ads. You can also post for whistles you want. I have already put one ads up and will be going through my collection to sell many more. All the best Phil.
27/01/08 | Becky Taylor_Ireland Bridge
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I have just received news of Becky Taylors new CD "Ireland Bridge".It will be out on CD in 2-3 weeks time. www.beckytaylor.info She has sent me a track from it which will be in the NEWS section if you'd like to hear it.The track is called The Gift. She tells me that she is using an NR Chieftain F that I gave her some time ago. Hope you like it. phil.
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26/01/08 | WM or QT?
Phil Hardy
This is a bit of a poll. What do you prefer Windows Media Player or Apple Quick Time. Please email me with your comments and reasons at: phil@kerrywhistles.com I can now work in both and would like to get your opinions. I know there will be many who prefer one to the other for various reasons so I'd like to get an overview for the future. Also there are only five more days left before the Kerry Songbird High D's go up to £115. So get your orders in now if you want to get one at the old price (£85) The reason they are going up is to keep in line the the retail trade who will now be selling them. Phil.
25/01/08 | KerryPro F's D's
Phil Hardy
I have some KerryPro F's & D's for sale at £175 each. Let me know if you are interested. phil@kerrywhistles.com
23/01/08 | Eric Rigler Interview in Full
Phil Hardy
Hi,I have replaced the cut version of Erics interview with the uncut version. http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=26# Hope you like it. Phil.
18/01/08 | Whistle Clearout.
Phil Hardy
Hi fellow whistlers. I have decided to let go of some of the many whistles in my collection as they don't seem to get much use. The first to go up for grabs is the Busman high D tunable blackwood. They are £125 new and as it has had little use I am asking £100 Uk pound inc postage worldwide. I would prefer a UK buyer if possible for obvious reasons. Contact me at:phil@kerrywhistles.com if you are interested..it's a nice whistle and need a good home. phil.
15/01/08 | Oz Whistles Vid Review
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I have just posted my short but concise video review of Mitch Smith's Oz Whistle high D. You will find it here: http://www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=19 Look for Oz Whistle Review. I cannot recomend this whistle enough. Phil.
13/01/08 | Kerry Songbird High D's
Phil Hardy
As you may know the Kerry Songbird range of whistles has only been avaiable from the Kerrywhistles website as an exclusive. As of the beginning of Feb 2008 we will now be selling the high D's through our distribution network.This will mean an increase in price at the retail end and on the website from £85 to the RRP £115. We have been selling them only through our website for a number of years and as the whistle has grown in popularity we decided to offer them the to retail market.This will enable many more people to try them out world wide. So if you would like to grab one before we go global with them, I suggest you buy one before the 1st Feb 2008. Phil.
10/01/08 | KerryPro Low D's
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,since xmas I have had time to build some KerryPro whistles. I have 2 x KerryPro Low D's and 1 x KerryPro F. I have reduced the price of these whistles from £250 down to £175 inc post world wide. If you are interested in these please email me at : phil@kerrywhistles.com I don't expect them to hang around for long so don't procrastinate. All the best. phil.
04/01/08 | Some New Music
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, after going through some old boxes of cassettes the other day I found one of a singer I wrote for and produced back in the early 80's. His name is Jean-Marie Lavillard. As you can tell he is French and we wrote most of the songs in French. I have created a Myspace for these songs for your enjoyment if romantic melodies are your thing. So check out: www.myspace.com/lavillard I hope yopu enjoy them. Phil.
30/12/07 | Folkworld Webcast
Phil Hardy
Hi guys, I hope you all had a great time over the holiday period. I have now uploaded a new show that is slightly different to the ol' whistle stuff.The new show is just good old Folk Music. I had Chief Wanganui gatecrash the session and he added his particular style to the show so I hope you like the change of flavour (flavor US). So Folkworld Webcast's will be the order of the day in 2008,this gives me much more scope to make interesting shows. All the best for 2008 Lets make it a good one. Phil.
17/12/07 | OZ Whistles High D
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I have just finished filming Chief Wangs review of the new OZ Whistles high D. Personally,I think it is the best wood high D on the market and would recomend you check out the Chiefs review here: http://www.tonyhinnigan.com/moviedl.php?group=29 Wanganui's Whistle Wishlist. I will do my own video review very soon. I have never played a wood whistle that ticks all the boxes, not only does it look very nice but it has a fantastic tone, clear and crisp,it's perfectly in tune and almost plays itself. Both the Chief and I feel that for the money, which incidently is an extremely modest amount,this whistle leaves all the others standing. here is a quote from the Chief's site. "The other day I repaired to the house of my producer, foggy of head and irkish of humour, to be presented with a new high D whistle made by Mitch Smith at Oz Whistles. I immediately cheered up upon playing the instrument. I've played many a musical instrument in my time and, when you get a good one in your hands, it's an absolute joy and when you get something really special, you don't want to do anything else but keep playing it. Mitch's whistle is one of the latter. I understand that he has only been making whistles for a couple of years and I, therefore, have to accord him the instrument-making equivalent of an Oscar-Board-Sweeping-Best-Everything award. Best Newcomber? You bet! There will be some garbled footage on this site shortly under "Old Grey Whistle Test" on the subject of the whistle and, as soon as I can collect 250 of yer Australian dollars to send to Oz Whistles, I will have one of my own. I can't wait! By the way, it not only sounds brilliant, it looks FANTASTIC!! Great work. I'll be playing the whistle some more on the site when I've got one and lived with it for a bit, and will publish details of recordings on which I will (undoubtedly) use it." www.ozwhistles.com The above address is where you can purchase this fantastic whistle and I would recomend that you get your orders in straight away as I predict a massive waiting list for this item as soon as these reviews hit home. I would like to extend my deepest admiration to Mitch for showing us all the meaning of a great wooden whistle nay a masterpiece of simple, effective design. Well Done Mitch...hats off! Phil ps see site NEWS for pic.
13/12/07 | Kerry Songbird Low D's
Phil Hardy
Hi Guys,just to let you know that Kerry Songbird Low D's will be going up from £99 to £120 on the first of Jan 2008.So,if you were thinking of getting one you have only 3 weeks left. Phil.
11/12/07 | OZ Whistle High D.
Phil Hardy
I have just received a beautiful high D whistle from Mitch Smith in Australia. The Oz Whistle high D is extremely in simillar look to the Paul Busman high D that I have but that is where it ends. Check out the video review at the end of the week where myself and Tony will tell you more. Phil.
27/11/07 | Aysha's First Xmas!
Phil Hardy
"I'm not sure what Xmas is but it looks like fun,Merry Xmas" Love Aysha....... and all at Kerrywhistles.
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08/11/07 | Classic Hinnigan
The Producer
I have just taken the liberty of uploading one of Tony's new Classical webcasts in the webcast section of www.kerrywhistles.com Many of you know Tony as a wind player yet Tony's has along and distinguished history as Cellist, the Michael Nyman Band for example....say no more ! His vast knowledge of the classics makes for an interesting yet, dare I say it, compelling listening experience...even if yer don't like classical music ! So,do yourself a big favour and make a nice cup of tea/coffee and settle down to Classic Hinnigan in the WEBCAST section...or just click on the link below.(news page) You never know...you just might like it. Phil.
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06/11/07 | Hinnigan Reviews
Phil Hardy
I have uploaded some whistle and flute reviews on www.tonyhinnigan.com The reviews are of two different Jonathan Swaine low Ds,one Ebony and the other Cherry. A Dixon Bb tunable whistle and a Dixon D flute. Also some footage of Tony playing on of his new Bahu's. You'll find all this here: http://www.tonyhinnigan.com/moviedl.php?group=29 We hope you'll find it useful. Any feedback,please email Tony at: tony@tonyhinnigan.com
29/10/07 | Flooked Again!
Phil Hardy
Last night I had the pleasure of seeing my ol' mates Flook at the Hammersmith Irish Centre.The centre is 12 years old and so are Flook. I shot some clips and have put them in the CINEMA section of the Kerrywhistles site.You might like to take a look. Flook 2007 http://www.kerrywhistles.com/cinema.php I hear that there is a possibility of a new CD sometime next year. Phil.
28/10/07 | POLSKI PRZEDSTAWICIEL HANDLOWY FIRMY KERRYWHISTLES
Bartek Baranowski
POLSKI PRZEDSTAWICIEL HANDLOWY FIRMY KERRYWHISTLES Witam, Nazwywam sie Bartek Baranowski. Jestem wylacznym przedstawicielem firmy Kerrywhisles w Polsce. Polskim klientom oferujemy sprzedaz wszystkich produktow Kerrywhitles po znacznie nizszych niz katalogowe (stronie: www. kerrywhistles.com) cenach. Juz teraz mozna skladac zapytania i zamowienia na whistle, a od grudnia 2007 zaistnieje mozliwosc opsobistego sprobowania i przetestowania wszystkich produktow Kerrywhistles na miejscu w Polsce. Zamowienia i zapytania nalezy skladac droga mailowa na adres: bbaranowski@o2.pl Termin realizacji zamowien to ok 3 tygodnie. Towar dostarczany jest wprost z warsztatu Phila Hardy pod Londynem, a w ceny polskiego cennika wliczony jest juz koszt przesylki. Odbior whistli jest osobisty w Warszawie lub Lublinie. Zaplata przy odbiorze, gotowka w funtach lub rownowartosc (po kursie wymiany walut NBP) w zlotowkach. W zalaczniku mozecie Panstwo sprawdzic ceny w polski cenniku Kerrywhistles Serdecznie pozdrawiam, Bartek
15/10/07 | A Proud Dad!
Phil Hardy
Sorry Folk's I couldn't resist. Here is a pic of my two daughters Hannah & Aysha at my recent 50th birthday party...what a pic. Phil.
06/10/07 | Special Offer
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,we have a special offer on Kerry Songbird high D's.They are down in price form £75 to £60 until the end of october 2007. Phil.
05/10/07 | New MP3
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I have just uploaded a new track after playing around in the new studio.This ProTools system is like rocket science and nothing like my old VS Roland system.I think it's going to take a while to learn all the editing fascillities but should be well worth it in the end.I hope you like the track,it's in the MP3 section under Didge Irish,I didn't know the name of the toon.(also on this page) The whistles used were Busman high D and Chieftain V3 low D. Also I just got an email from an old comrade of mine from the 80's,we use dto be in a band together called "The Creamies". He has compiled a CD of our old tracks and has them for sale on CDBaby. http://cdbaby.com/cd/creamies You might like to have a listen. I also put a www.myspace.com/thecreamies together sometime ago. Thats it for now. Phil.
Download MP3
27/09/07 | NR's & OS's Chieftains
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,after reviewing a recent thread on the Sniff,I just wanted to point our a few facts relating to NR and OS Chieftain whistles. The OS were made without winged blocks for the first few years,then we introduced the winged blocks which was the only difference.A winged block can be seen if you look into the window and see a solid wall running down each side of the window. I then redesigned the Chieftain ,thus the New Range ( NR ) was born.We also moved to another factory with much better fascillities and better supply.Sadly they did not have an engraving machine so the first 200 NR Chieftains did NOT have a serial number.This factory then closed down and we had then to find another factory.This done,we were able then to produce the NR Chieftain range with serial numbers. After a while I started to round off the mouthpieces as I didn't like the sharp edges and it made them much more comfortable to play. So if you have an NR Chieftain with no serial number ,it would be one of the whistles made by the intermediate factory. Also we have decided to keep the NR low D range going but only available from the Kerrywhsitles online SHOP. I hope this will clear up some of the confusion. phil.
21/09/07 | Fresh faces.
Phil Hardy
I just came across this old pic of myself Bernard and Colin from 1993. How things have moved on. Phil.
16/09/07 | The Complete Set
Phil Hardy
We are now offering a complete set of Chieftain whistles at a fabulous £499 inc postage worldwide.The set comprises of Mezzo D C Bb A (NR),Alto G F and Tenor D.The saving will be £166 UK pounds. This offer is ONLY available from the Kerrywhistles on-line SHOP.
08/09/07 | Thornton Whistles by Tommy Martin
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I have just managed to put together a short video review of Tomy Martins high D whistle.You can find it in the Pro-Files section of MOVIES. www.kerrywhistles.com/dl.php?group=19 www.thorntonwhistles.info
05/09/07 | Big Voice Jack & Chieftains
Phil Hardy
So,finally Chieftains have found their way to the south of Africa.It looks like a whole set of OS Chieftains are now being played by Big Voice Jack and exponant of the Kwela style.
29/07/07 | Chieftain V3 Alto F Clip.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I have put a small video clip of me playing the new Chieftain V3 Alto F whistle in the MOVIES section under PRO-FILES. Phil.
22/07/07 | V3 Final Review.
James Hunter.
V3 Review: I have thought for some time that the Kerry Songbird low D was one of the best low D's money could buy, and certainly the best value. It's a wonderful whistle. The tone is rich and deep, it's fast playing, comfortable, and well pitched. As such, I've grown sceptical about the need to pay more for a professional level low D. It's not that I haven't enjoyed other low D's I've tried, or never play others I own, but the Songbird is, to my ear, as good or better as the more expensive whistles I've tried, and much, much better than the few low D's that cost less. There are of course tonal differences between instruments, and certainly aesthetic ones, but in terms of reliability and quality of tone, I don't think you can do much better than the Songbird. It was, then, with some curiosity that I asked Phil to add me to the list of reviewers for the V3. What, I wondered, could he be offering in a production whistle that could really set it apart from its sister? Well, I've spent the last few days getting to know the new V3 low D, and must admit that I've become quite attached. The first thing to note is that while the V3 bares some physical resemblance to the Songbird, it is a proper successor to the Chieftain. Like the Chieftain, the V3 is quieter than the Songbird, and has more 'chiff'. The Songbird, by comparison, has a deeper, flute-like quality to its tone. It's louder and resonant, and I have, frankly, preferred it to the sound of the Chieftain low D. But the V3 is distinct. It's tone, while still full of chiff, is somehow softer and darker than the Chieftain-it has a more interesting character, more complicated than the Chieftain. I like it a lot. And while the Songbird is still louder, the comparatively small amount of breath the V3 requires is more than a fair trade off. It's not, after all, as if the V3 is too quiet - it's just quieter than the Songbird, and requires noticeably less puff. This, in fact, is what really makes the V3 stand out to me - its ease of play. When I first unpacked the whistle, I was, like the other reviewers, impressed with how nice it looks. It feels strange to say this of a piece of aluminium tubing, but its build quality really is excellent-it looks every bit a professional instrument. From the first sound you put through the V3, though, you're attention is drawn to how effortless it is to play. Like the Chieftain, the finger positioning is very comfortable, and easily manageable. But it is just really easy to play. The whistle is well balanced over its range in terms of volume and breath requirement. I'm not sure how Phil has done this, but the whistle really doesn't sound much louder in the upper ranges than it does in the lower range, and it requires only marginally more air to jump the register. And yet, the whistle is very, very stable. When you are in the upper register, you feel secure there - you don't feel as though you are going to slip into the lower register if you let up. Similarly, when you're in the lower register, it doesn't feel like the tone will crack if you lean too much into it. I want to really emphasize this because, to my mind, it's this quality that really separates good whistles from very good whistles. The V3 is exceptionally stable - one of the most stable whistles I've played. It doesn't easily chirp or squeak, it holds its tone, and is responsive to what you want it to do. It's excellent. Needless to say, the V3 is also well pitched across its entire range. Most quality whistles have good tuning through the lower and middle ranges, and I find that whistles are often separated over their tuning in the upper range. The V3 is good here. But I think it is worth noting that the F natural on the V3 is spot on in both registers. In the dozen or so quality low D's I've played, the F natural has always been a problem. This is the first one with an F natural I've really been happy with. The V3's excellent tuning, stability and overall ease of play flatter you. This is really its parting piece. There is no struggle in getting to know it - it just works as soon as you pick it up, and it lets you play without having to worry about things like pitching or squeaking. And that lets you play as well as you can. The V3 is excellent value, is excellent quality, and has, I think, perfected that chieftain sound. As Phil says, "it's definitely one for the collection". My Songbird is going to have to share the low D spotlight from now on. James Hunter
15/07/07 | Bruny & Aysha
Phil Hardy
Here is a nice pic of my wife Bruny and Aysha.
12/07/07 | New Chieftain V3 alto F.
Phil Hardy
I have made an MP3 of the new Chieftain V3 alto whistle.You can hear it if you select the mp3 below. I must say that this F is the most responsive and colourful F I have ever played, it just does everything you want it to and without having to adjust your playing at all.You can push it hard and it doesn't break,sweak or falter.If you are thinking of buying an F give the V3 a go you won't be dissapointed. Take a listen to the mp3 a few times and hear the tone and ease of playabillity. The pic is of me playing the tune. Phil. Instruments used in recording. Chieftain V3 F whistle Taylor CE315 electro accoustic Musicman Bass Fender Tele Custom Zildjian Ride Cymbal
Download MP3
12/07/07 | New Team Member.
Phil Hardy
I like to welcome Tim Gillett to the Kerrywhistles team.Tim has come in to help me learn about and opperate the new studio system.He is in his third year at tech college studying sound technology and has plenty of experience of the pro tools system.So hopefully we shall increase our musical output from now on.
03/07/07 | Chieftain Alto V3's
Hi guys,we now have the new Chieftain V3 alto G's and F's in stock . If you wish to buy one ,you can from the on-line shop. http://www.kerrywhistles.com/store.php They will be in the shops within the next month. I'll be posting a video clip of them very soon. Phil.
24/06/07 | Aysha
Phil Hardy
24/06/07 | Chieftain V3 F & G
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,we are now at the proto type Chieftain V3 alto F and G stage and will be proving them next week.All being well we should be in production the week after.I'll post again when they are ready and for sale. We have already sold over 120 of the low d V3s.They seem to be very popular. If you are interested there are some reviews on the NEWS page. Phil.
09/06/07 | Adaptatrap
Phil Hardy
If you are in the south of Britain (UK) and want to try our whistles,especially the new Chieftain V3,there is a great music shop in Brighton called ADAPTATRAP at 26 Trafalgar Street.They are mainly a percussion shop but carry many interesting instruments including whistles and Bodhrans. Check the site: http://www.adaptatrap.co.uk/ Tel: 01273 672722 Les is the owner and a great bloke. Phil.
09/06/07 | Whistle Pics.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,here is a pic of some of the whistles in my collection.Time to thin down abit methinks! The ones below are made by myself and the ones above are by other makers.Top left are all Overtons. Phil.
08/06/07 | V3 Tuneable NOW IN STOCK
I now have stock of CHIEFTAIN V3 tunable low Ds,You can now buy on-line at www.kerrywhistles.com [SHOP] section.The first 25 people to buy this whistle will also receive a FREE CD by THE BLACKTHORN BAND featuring myself and Phillipe Barnes. Phil.
05/06/07 | Chieftain V3 Reviews.
Various Reviewers
1. As a fairly recent newcomer to the Celtic whistle I was at first in awe of this new version of the world renowned Cheftain Low whistle; would I be able to play such a crafstman made instrument? My fears were instantly gone as soon as I blew my first note, it is so easy to play its untrue. Years of whistle making experience has enabled Phil Hardy to produce a superbly crafted whistle with a flawless modern look that definitely has the "wow" factor. It has a rich, smooth, velvety sound which maintains its integrity throughout its range, it has comfortable hole spacing, is very accurately pitched, and is incredibly responsive to breath control. The V3 will definatley push the boundaries of contemporary whistle making and must only add to the legendary Chieftain name. An instrument that will really compliment and enhance the music of anyone who plays one, the Chieftain V3 will definitely continue to place Kerrywhistles at the forefront of top class whistle making. Phil Ross. 2. The new Chieftain V3 is truly a professional instrument: elegant in appearance, precision machined, and deceptively simple in design. I say that because, while the polished aluminum body and sleek styling are very attractive, it is still afterall a long tube with six holes in it like any other whistle, right? Well, not exactly. As I've gotten to know this instrument, I've found such wonderful and surprising tonal complexity--warm and almost reedy, somewhat like a nice Irish Flute! It is very easy to blow, accepting a lite breath through two octaves, but what really impresses me is just how much you can also lean into this baby. Like any fine orchestral instrument, warm it up, maintain good breath support, control your embouchure, and it just sings easily into three octaves with a wide range of dynamic expression, well-balanced, in-tune, and taking as much air as you can put into it. Since I can push a fair amount of air that aspect of the whistle made me very happy indeed! I'll be honest: I've never played a Low D Whistle before, perhaps intimidated a bit by the hole spacing, but the V3 is not bad at all in that category. My hands are about average-sized and I'm actually able to get away with using a normal grip for my upper hand and a piper's grip with my lower hand (normal grip with that hand is just a bit too uncomfortable for me and piper's grip was very easy to learn). All in all, Mr. Hardy has designed an incredible instrument that is quite simply a joy to play. Keep up the great work, Phil, I think you've got a winner! Paul Darcy 3. About a week ago I had the wonderful knock at the door. It was my postman with the V3. I quickly opened the pack and simply admired the beauty of this latest creation from Phil Hardy. It is indeed a great looking low D. Before writing a review I decided that I would "live" with this new whistle for a week. I already own a Chieftain Low D and I wanted to get to "know" this whistle, as all instruments have their own little personalities, in terms of how to play them. I also decided to evaluate some comments about this whistle being a little quieter than its previous generation. To evaluate volume I ran a simple test which captured the volume of the whistles being played. The jpeg "Chieftain v V3 volume test" and mp3 file "Chieftain v V3 review" shows these results. The chart shows the volume levels of each whistle (starting with the Chieftain) playing in succession each note from low D to the second octave B one after each other, ie., Low D, then E, F#, G etc up to B. The second set is the V3. In addition I tried (and I am only human) to use the same amount of air with each whistle. As you can see from the jpeg, there is minimal difference in actual volume of each whistle. The V3 has a beautiful warm, rounded tone which may appear to the player to sound quieter, however I would suggest that the V3 is on a par in volume terms with the Chieftain. The great advantage with the V3 over the Chieftain is in the second and third octaves. The V3 simply sings easily where the Chieftain took more effort and air speed and was more difficult to be subtle with. The V3 is simply beautful in this area. This is also demonstrated in some spectogram tests I ran also using the same procedure of the one note steps. The jpegs "Chieftain" and "Chieftain V3" show these results which demonstrate that in the higher octave the V3 is creating more sound across a greater range of frequencies. In simple terms this is great as it gives each note more quality. The other area I tested was intonation. I play regularily in multiple ensemble situations where playing in tune is a "must", not an option. I am very very particular about instruments on two fronts. One, they must be able to play in tune at 440Hz (concert pitch) and two, their scale ie., each note must be in tune in relation to each other. The V3 in this area is excellent. Again you can play across three octaves and the instrument stays where it should be. I am very impressed with Phils work on this Low D. I play a large range of professional instruments some which cost literally thousands of pounds and I am proud to hold this V3 up there against these instruments. It is a wonderfully crafted instrument which both looks and sounds in the highest quality. Great work from a real craftsman. Raymond Robinson 4. Review of Chieftain V3: Love at First Sight. I have read three or four favorable reviews of the newest version of the Chieftain Low D, the V3. I am writing this from a different perspective. Of course it is important to know that the non tuneable V3 is perfectly pitched and perfectly in tune with itself. But honestly, I am just an amateur and what I am looking for is not this or that technical aspect, but, quite simply, an instrument I cannot resist, one that lets me express everything. I want love at first sight and a companion for life. I fell for traditional Irish music four years ago in Doolin. I am passionate about it, about my favorite tunes, and about the instruments I choose to play. For me there is in the world of music, passion pure and simple, nothing in between. This V3 is a godsend. Beautiful body, beautiful soul. I had just returned to Connecticut from two weeks in Ireland. It was midnight when I opened the box, not really knowing what was about to happen. I am a beginner of sorts, but I put many hours into this music. It took me a few minutes to adjust to the holes (I have a number of Low D’s, low whistles in many keys, plus several flutes). Though it was late (5 a.m. Irish time!), I started with King of the Pipers, working through it slowly, then faster and faster, moving on to Kiss the Maid Behind the Barrel, then The First House in Connacht. Lots of rolls. Wonderful sound effects. I was hearing these and other favorites in new ways. I couldn’t put it down. From the ease of adjustment, to the range of sounds I could generate, from soft, to loud, to punchy and percussive. …..this V3 was telling me "Go for it! Let it out! Blow! Sound out those emotions, all of them!" It was giving me sound effects I had not experienced with my other whistles. It required me to really fill the barrel, with more air pressure than any of the others; that was new for me, but I liked it and adjusted quickly. The payoff was clear: the V3 had a stronger, more robust, consistent voice, not at all quirky or unpredictable. I was getting a beautiful, full, soft and airy sound (not edgy). I loved its amazing expressiveness of range, running from soft and dreamy to loud and aggressive. I forced myself to go to sleep at 2 a.m., but I was up early and going at more favorites by 7 a.m. Couldn’t get it out of my mind, then or now, this sound, this totally expressive Low D. It gives new life and a new range of emotions to all my favorite tunes. My wife says I’m an addict. I call it passion. But yes, I am hooked, and the V3 is giving me new highs. If you are like me, and enjoy getting lost in the music, you won’t be able to put this instrument down. The V3 is a gem. Bill Morse, Connecticut 5.THe V3 is a truely marvelous instrument; huge sound, elegant design and friendly to play. I recieved this whistle the day before I was to move house and what a godsend it was. Whenever the stress of moving became too much for me I would take half an hour with it, play the old favourites, and I was totally relaxed. Nothing stressful about playing this whistle! It is very responsive and the dynamic range it offers is fantastic. The tone, to me, is perfect. that totally mellow and clean sound with a hint of huskiness. Incredibly for a low whistles, it is completely in tune from the low D right up to the third octave A, all of which possessing that stunning tone. In summary, a pretty damn good whistle. The construction is great, everything in the right place, it sounds great and it is straight forward to play I didn't have to adapt to it in any way. Nice one phil Cheers ,Matheu Watson
04/06/07 | Deal for High D Whistlers.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I know there are many high D whsitlers out there who have not yet made the transition to low D,the reasons for this are many.Size,cost etc. I have now put together a package to encourage high D players to try a Low D and get a truly great high D at little cost. So,I am now offering a Kerry Songbird High D & Kerry Plastic head low D for £95 uk pounds sterling for the to two inc postage world wide. This offer is only available from the Kerrywhistles website SHOP. I hope this will encourage more of you to try a low D. All the best Phil.
03/06/07 | Overton Review
Phil Hardy
Hi guys ,you may or may not know that Bernard Overton has been making whistles since the 1970s.I have now got one Overton Low D made by Bernard from each decade and had Tony Hinnigan review all of them in a non-stop review. You will find the review at www.tonyhinnigan.com in the DOWNLOADS section under "Old Grey Whistle Test" OVERTONS. Definately worth a look . Phil. ps image in NEWS section of KWL site.
26/05/07 | McGoldrick & McCusker
Phil Hardy
As you may know Mike and John have recently teamed up for a serise of gigs in the UK one of which was the "Big Whistle Weekend" in Bury.I have just uploaded some clips from the gig in MOVIES under Mike McGoldrick.One of the clips includes playing from Adelle Farrell and Emma Sweeney. Enjoy. Phil
25/05/07 | Online Chieftain V3.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,the new Chieftain V3 low Ds are now available from the Kerrywhistles online SHOP.The first shops in the USA to have them will be Lark in the Morning.They will have 20 so get your orders in now as i think they will run out fairly soon.Our UK/Europe distributors Gremlin will have them in the second week of june.All review whistles will be sent out next week. Phil.
02/05/07 | Chieftain V3
Phil Hardy
I have now played this new Chieftain Low D for a week and I have fallen in love with it.The bottom end has the fat sound I really want from a bell note yet the upper register is smoother and rounder/sweeter than the NR, which was a little brash.I feel I now have a well balanced Chieftain Low D, that has a nice back pressure and is easier to control in both octaves.It is also very comfortable in the mouth with no sharp edges anywhere,the holes are excactly the same as the NR and it also has the same cork comp tunening slide which works really well on the tunables. Check NEWS for pics and sound clips. A quick review in PRO-FILE under Chieftain V3 Phil.
29/04/07 | Chieftain Comparison.
Phil Hardy
Here are the three different models of the Chieftain low D,Left to right OS Chieftan , NR Chieftain , V3 Chieftain.
27/04/07 | New Chieftain V3
Phil Hardy
As many of you will know this is the tenth anniversary of the Chieftain whistle.It was developed way back in 1997 as the first manufactured alloy whistle in the world.The whistle became known as the OS (old style) Chieftain and in 2001 I changed the design to improve the sound and playabillity and build and these whistles are now know as NR(new range) Chieftains. To celebrate the anniversary I have now redesigned the Chieftain and given it a more up to date modern look and made the sound and tone even richer and fuller. Based on the Kerry Songbird high D design it also has a new name,The V3 (version 3) We have now gone into production and the first low D's will be in the shops sometime in May 07. The NR Chieftains will be gradually phased out and be replaced by the new Chieftain V3s in all keys fixed and tunable. They will also be available from the Kerrywhistles on line SHOP. All keys will be available in the next few months. Reviews will also be available very soon. Below is a pic for starters. Phil.
21/04/07 | Reyburn Low D
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,it's great weather here in the UK and so I have been outside enjoying the new low D from Reyburn Whistles and have done a review in the MOVIES section under PRO-FILES. I like the combination of brass and wood. Enjoy the review and please remember that if you are buying one from outside the USA ,the import vat tax is around £30 or Euro 40. Phil. ps mailing list please find pic on NEWS page of site.
13/04/07 | Flook USA 2007
Phil Hardy
I have been sent some footage of Flook on their recent USA tour with Michael McGoldrick by Randy Gosa form the band Ce. I have put this footage in the CINEMA section under CELTIC. Mike and Brian have not play in the same band for many years so this is a one off.
06/04/07 | Bump!
Phil Hardy
Well,it's time to say goodbye to the old equipment in the studio.We are just about to install Pro-Tools 003,Mac G5 and all the gubbings that go with the system. I have just finished a small ditty called "Bump" as my wife is due to give birth in June. The track is just below. Phil ps,track and pic in NEWS section
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06/04/07 | Tim Edey Band-Farrago CD
Phil Hardy
I have just received a copy of Farrago,The Tim Edey Band's new CD with Brendan Power and Lucy Randall. I suggest you give it a spin,it is a totally new take on folk music. www.timedey.com here is a track below. Phil Pic and track on NEWS page.
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28/03/07 | My Ol' Mucker!
I haven't heard from me Ol' Mucker Chief Wanganui for a while ,I was wondering what had happend until I saw this! No Comments Required. Phil. come to NEWS page for pic!
27/03/07 | Kerry Songbird tunable high Ds
Phil Hardy
At lats I am happy to say we now have a good stock of the long awaited Kerry Songbird High D tunable,These whistles ONLY come as tunable and are ONLY available from the Kerryhwistles on -line SHOP at £90. Please check the PRO-FILES section as I'll post a small clip. Phil.
28/02/07 | Free Extra Body.
Phil Hardy
Hi Guys,all tunable Chieftain Low D's now come with a FREE extra body.This could be an E or Eb depending on stocks.The price is still the same £150. Phil.
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18/02/07 | A New Take On Folk!
Phil Hardy
It's been four months since I have been out with the camera to a gig,the last time was Joannie madden last October,where does the time go? Last night I dragged myself and my wife to the Hammersmith Irish Centre London to see an old mate of mine Tim Edey.many of you will know him from playing with Mike McGoldrck and Lunasa to name but a few but he now has his own 3 peice trio called The Tim Edey Band.The other two members being the illustrious Brenden Power on harmonica and the amazing Lucy Randle on Cohon and Bodhran.A strange set up I thought as I walked into the building.On meeting Tim in the front hall,I found out that this was to be no normal trad gig! No apologies were given when they walked on the stage as they warned everyone seated that they were disregarding all the trad rules and playing what felt like,this was going to be very interesting as the venue has a very trad tradition. What started out to be a rather tranquil concert turned into one of the most mindblowing gigs I've seen in years. So,I have posted the entire gig,uncut ,with halftime interview in the CINEMA section under CELTIC although on second thought I should have posted it in the WORLD section. Sadly my pc crashed 3/4 through the capture so rather that waste time going back I have posted the gig in two parts but this will not take away from the astounding pyrotechnics of these 3 masters. They have just recorded a new CD entitled FARAGO which will be available from the Kerrywhistles SHOP in april.They are playing a number of gigs around the UK so check www.timedey.com for dates. I you are a convetional tradhead DON'T view this film as you may not sleep for a week. The interview in part 1 says it all,they improvise,take risks,and have a pile of fun,it's as if they are just entertaining themselves,they has the audience captivated last night and when you see the film you'll understand why. "It's folk Jim but not as we know it" On another note.get yourselves over to www.tonyhinnigan.com as the Chief is now giving his entire collection of CD's away free.All you have to do is add your email to his list,ping back the email check and download the entire collection without paying a cent/penny/euro/yen. How generous can is that? We are now putting the finishing touches to Jeremy Dundas's new single and video and that will be available for sale at www.jeremydundas.com Next week I'll be back at the Irish centre again to film Taraba,a new band featuring Jacquelyn Hynes and Aiden Burke (Comas).This is a collabaration of many styles of world music,should be interesting,stay tooned. So,enjoy all. Phil.
17/02/07 | New Instruments.
Phil Hardy
I have just purchased a new Bass guitar for the studio and it's not often I get excited for instruments but this is a very rare 1980 Musicman Stingray and I was lucky to find it.A case of right place right time.Quoting the Chief "it does what it says on the tin" Phil.
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16/02/07 | Kerry Songbird Low Ds
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,just a note to say that as from today all Kerry Songbird Low Ds will come as tunable only,the sales of the fixed have been way out stripped by the sales of the tunables. As this is a high end tunable low whistle at only £90 and still ONLY available from the Kerrywhistles we feel there is no need to sell them as fixed anymore. All our current stock of fixed has now been converted to tunable so we have a great stock of them. We shall also have stock of the high D tunables as well very soon,I'll keep you posted. Phil.
14/02/07 | The Before.
Phil Hardy
I just came across this pic of the before studio,I can't belive we did it.
14/02/07 | New Tune.
Phil Hardy
Last year I posted a review of the Shaw low D...yuk..anyway whilst reviewing the whistle I wrote a simple toon and dedicated it to a pal of mine in the good ol' USA,her name being Laura Foley.This week saw the start of recording in the new Kerrywhistles studio or as we now call it HEADSPACE studios as the ceilings are very high...nice.So I have posted the track in the MP3 section of the site in Phil Hardy Trax..it's more modern than trad but hey...who cares. I just might add that it was played on a KerryPro Low D,the one I am selling so if you want it get in touch..you know where. Phil.
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09/02/07 | The First Show.
The Producer!
It is my pleasure to inform you that we have just completed the first Hinnigans World Tour webcast in the new studio here at Kerrywhistlesworld or Headspace Studios. The show is completely vinyl and has all the subtlies of a Mongoose on heat. You'll find the show at www.tonyhinnigan.com in the WEBCAST section. Much more to come so enjoy and feed back to Chief Wanganui if you dare. TP.
05/02/07 | Apologies
Phil Hardy
I know I have been neglecting the site in recent weeks as I have ben flat out on finishing the studio.Tomorow I will do the first session with Chief Wanganui for his next Hinnigans World Tour webcast.I have it on good authority that it will be a purely analogue show using only records from his extensive collection. You can all expect alot more webcasts and video in future now the work is coming to an end,so apologies for the lack of new content this will very soon be rectified. Thanks for staying with it and I hope you'll enjoy the new years offerings. BTW my wife Bruny is expecting in June,should be interesting! Phil.
06/01/07 | A grand night out!
Phil Hardy
A Great Night Out! 06/01/07 - The Producer I'd like to thank Tony and his family for a splendid night out last night.We all (myself ,my wife,Tony's wife and two kids)went to see his latest endevour ,Apocalypto ,in Leicester Square London.After a reasonable session at DeHens we enjoyed a violent romp through the central American jungles to be followed by yet another small session in The Bear and Staff.Personally ,I'd go for the sessions in the bar rather than a violent romp,I was quite out of breath by the end of the movies. So,thanks once again Mr Hinnigan. ps,see NEWS on site for pic. TP
11/12/06 | More Mise
Phil Hardy
Check out the new/old film of Mise 2004 Hammersmith Irish Centre in the CINEMA section.
09/12/06 | World Wind Band.
Phil Hardy
So...if you enjoyed the last webcast with Jan Hendrickse,you should check his Cd SAFAR.It's one of the most inspirational Cds to come out in a lonnnnng time. Phil.
08/12/06 | Mike & SalsaCeltica
Phil Hardy
New film of Mike McGoldrick with SalsaCeltica back in 2004 at Hyde Park London.You'll find it in the CINEMA section under WORLD. Phil
04/12/06 | Cool Yule Discounts
Phil Hardy
As promised all Chieftain Whistles in the SHOP here at www.kerrywhistles.com are reduced by £10 stg until Jan 1st 2007. Songbird prices remain the same...very low. Phil.
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04/12/06 | Hudson Winds.
Phil Hardy
Just got hold of one of these new Hudson Wind high D whistle.(See NEWS section for pic)I'll be posting a review of it in the PRO-FILES section.It's a conical bore with the head joint very similar (in look) to a Chieftain ,made of thin brass and tunable. First impressions are:nice smooth lower register but thinner tone in the upper,a little shrill for my taste but many will love it.Very well made and well in tune.Brass with a Delrin like plug (fipple). Watch for the review. Phil
28/11/06 | Dave Williams Tribute Session 06
Phil Hardy
At last I have some time to put this little gem of a film up.For all you CINEMA buffs ,it'll be in that section under Dave Williams Tribute 2006. Enjoy. Phil.
24/11/06 | Bob White Songbird Review & Pic
Phil Hardy
I just got a nice email from Bob White of The New Scorpion Band,he also played with Tony and Jan on the last Horner movie Apocolypo.Here is his short review of the Kerry Songbird Low D tunable. Dear Phil, The songbird is really good it has a balanced volume over the whole instrument, which is unusual with any whistle. It is nice and tight in the upper register and means that you can push it more without losing the tuning, again unusual. The sound is more flute like than an ordinary whistle which I like, maybe this is because it is just a better instrument than most. Having a tuning slde is essential for any serious use and I would consider it a must. Well done, it's a great design. After having largely abandoned the whistle for the more serious flute! I think I am being tempted back, and I will use The Songbird on my next solo album! What more can I say? 10/10. Cheers Bob White New Scorpion Band www.new-scorpion-band.com www.robertwhitepiper.co.uk www.robertwhitemusic.co.uk Thanks Bob Phil
22/11/06 | Jan Hendrikse Webcast
Phil Hardy
I have Jan Hendrikse in the studio next week for his own webcast on ethnic eastern flutes and whistle.Jan has just recently worked with Tony Hinnigan on the latest Mel Gibson movie Apocolypto so it should be an interesting session.He'll be choosing 10 tracks to show off this middle eastern style of wind instrument and talking about his work.All very interesting stuff. I have also confirmation of another highly regarded flute player coming in to do a webcast for december...stay tooned. Phil.
07/11/06 | Kerry Low D
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,just a quickie to say that the Kerry low D (plastic head)is now back in stock. We are now happy to anounce that we have changed the colour to dark blue. Still the best beginner low D on the market. Phil.
06/11/06 | Re:The Whistle Shop USA/Update.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,especially in the USA,I have noticed that The Whistle Shop on-line store is still advertising our Chieftain and Kerry products.I have not had an order from them in a year.Thom says he is out of stock of all the items but to order anyway.This is a false statement as I don't intend to supply him anymore and have not supplied him since early last year.Please do not order our products from him as you'll be wasting your time.If you want our products,please order direct from us at www.kerrywhistles.com SHOP. If you have already ordered from him and not received your whistle please let me know asap. Phil. Update/I have it on good authority that The Whistle Shop has gone under...do not buy anything from them as they now owe plenty of money to suppliers.
05/11/06 | Ce/new section in the MOVIES.
Phil Hardy
The lads from Ce have kindly sent some more clips of themselves playing live so I've given them their own section in the MOVIES.Hopefully there will be many more clips and maybe a full gig to show. Please check their site at www.cemusic.net and buy their CD as it's really good and worth a listen.They are all great players and an inspiration to the novice whistlers. Phil.
29/10/06 | Mike McGoldrick
Phil Hardy
I have just been trolling through the internet and came across this pic of Mike playing one of my Kerrypros. I think this is one of the coolest pics. What a whistle! What a player!
24/10/06 | Tina Dico
Phil Hardy
Maybe you have seen her in the MOVIES section under MISC but here is a chance to see a whole set.From a gig at The KashmirKlub London 2002 here she is in all her fabulous glory in the CINEMA section Now she is a big star,check her site. www.tinadico.com www.myspace.com/tinadico Phil
24/10/06 | AJO Cd.
Phil Hardy
I have just receive a copy of All Jigged Out ( AJO) new Cd Wish Hill. An interesting blend of styles and worth checking. Great playing all round,so where's the whistles Phillippe? And!...who played bass on tracks 11 & 12?..this is track 12 below. www.alljiggedout.com ...maybe someone could mention them on C&F...just a thought. Phil.
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20/10/06 | Interesting KWL Facts.
Phil Hardy
I was thinking to myself today that next year Kerrywhistles Ltd is 10 years old.I will have been in the whistle business for 15 years and it got me thinking about some of the firsts the company produced. 1.we were the first mass produced all alloy whistle. 2. we were the first to add compression wings/lugs to out block/fipple.(picked up by others in the following years) 3.we were the first to mass produce a tunable range of alloy whistles. 4.The first to make a budget low D for beginners,The Kerry. 5.The first company to make 4 ranges of low Ds for all budgets(with another low D in the pipeline). Last year we sold over 2000 units/whistles and over 600 Chieftain low Ds alone.This is a stagering amount never dreamed of and yet the maket is now growing with many new makers joining every year.This global growth has been very important to our company with our use of the net we have been able to bring whistle music to the world,our video selection is unrivaled and has been crucial in bringing great artists and their music to people who otherwise would not have been exposed. I can only guess that this is just the beginning of a now global trend towards whistles and whistle music and I'll try to bring as much interesting content to the site as I can in future. Kerrywhistles is now being joined by KerryMedia.This is the production wing of the company working more on the music/video side of the business.We hope to bring you some interesting stuff next year. I feel very proud of our achievements and hope to continuously develope the whistles and media in tandem. Thanks to all of you who enjoy our products and hope they bring years more pleasure. phil.
18/10/06 | Highs & Lows
Phil Hardy
I have just uploaded "Highs & Low" a Cd I recorded back in 2003.You can download it for free in the MP3 section track by track. Hope yers like it. Phil.
17/10/06 | Hinnigan Hardy & Burke/EarlyTrax
Phil Hardy
I am now giving away the CD Hinnigan Hardy & Burke /EarlyTrax in the MP3 section,all the tracks are listed as EarlyTrax. This was the precursor to "Low Whistle"which you are downloading at a rate of knots. I hope you enjoy this new one. Phil.
15/10/06 | BLOGS
Phil Hardy
I have just put together Tony Hinnigans BLOG at www.myspace.com/tonyhinnigan Please contribute and give him a hard time. Also here are some other BLOGS of mine. www.myspace.com/womenattheedge A group of girls with eating dissorders,adictions and psychological problems who can also sing and write toons. www.myspace.com/thecreamies This is an old band I was in in the 80's. www.myspace.com/philhardy More work to do on this one.
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14/10/06 | Pete Curtis
Phil Hardy
If you have listened to and enjoyed the tracks by Pete Curtis,you can now see his MySpace blog. www.myspace.com/119403732 Phil.
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11/10/06 | Low Whistle Tracks.
Phil Hardy
As promised,I'll be uploading the whole of my CD "Low Whistle" into the mp3 section.All the tracks are written and produced by me and most of the instruments are played by me. Hope you enjoy it. Phil.
25/09/06 | Ce
Phil Hardy
I have just recently recieved a new CD from a trad Irish combo in Milwaukie USA called Ce. They are a bunch of young lads who play a variety of instruments ,including whistles. I have not been able take this CD off my player. Maybe I am old and jaded and find most new trad music somewhat boring but these lads have broken the spell.There music has the verve and intelligence to even interest this old hack.Every track is filled with a longing and complete compitence,they definately have abillity beyond their years and proove this on every track.The vibe is Lunasa meets Flook with a twist of Milwaukie balls.There are also some nice references to Sylvan Barou...nice one lads. Their website is www.cemusic.net They have all thrack samples from the CD there to listen to. I totally recomend this CD to any trad lovers everywhere.Do yourselves a BIG favour and order a copy this instant. I'll be posting a couple of tracks from their CD "BetweenWords" here and in the next webcast. Phil. mailing list will not receive pic.
30/08/06 | Lunasa @ Litchfield
Phil Hardy
See the latest film in the Kerrywhistles CINEMA.This was filmed in 2004 in Litchfield,not long before Donah left the band. Also I'd like to welcome the 100s of new members and I hope you all enjoy the new CINEMA section. Loads more to come...as promised. Phil.
22/08/06 | KerryPro F Clip
Phil Hardy
I have put a clip up of a new KerryPro F that I have built for Matheu Watson.You'll find it in the Pro-Files section of the MOVIES I am thinking of building a few more so if you are interested get in touch phil@kerrywhistles.com
22/08/06 | Authenticity
Phil Hardy
If you buy a secondhand whistle and are told it's a KeryPro whatever key,you can tell if you look down the tube for my initials stamped on the block.see pic below. phil.
21/08/06 | Quena Tutorials
Phil Hardy
After battering the Chief about the head with a brick,I still can't get him to inform the masses of about the new Quena tutorials we have recorded for his site.....so I'd better do it. Ok Folk...here it is ...the all new Quena Tutorials for the beginner,you'll find them in the Download section under "tricks of the trade". Also there are some more whistle reviews in the "Old Grey whistle Test" section..! Thats www.tonyhinnigan.com
20/08/06 | MySpace
Phil Hardy
Just a reminder that you can hear some of my toons over at www.myspace.com/philhardy These are toons from my first CD "Low Whistle"
09/08/06 | Have Eye Gat Noos Fer U!
Phil Hardy
One of the most interesting reviews for a long time.Tony Hinnigan has got hold of some really good high Ds and reviewed them at www.tonyhinnigan.com in t"The Old Grey Whistle Test" section. We have on show two Tony Dixon high Ds,a Waltons Mellow D (get it!) and a Le Meur tunable high D...Oh and a Tamlin wooden thinggy. We have also just completed a new Hinnigans World Tour Webcast. So have fun and Pleeeeeeeaase...feedback..its' free and only takes a moment to coment. Phiol.(Irish)
02/08/06 | Dixon Alloy & Trad Ds Review
Phil Hardy
Clips are up now of the Dixon Alloy and Trad High Ds thanks to Gremlin Music.I have borrowed them to review them and quite like them both.Check the clips at www.kerrywhistles.com and look in the MOVIES section under Pro-Files. Phil.
24/07/06 | KerryPro Soprano D
Phil Hardy
I made a KerryPro soprano D the other day and it soundz quite nice,I'll be posting s clip very soon. Phil.
15/07/06 | Fraser Fifield/SalsaCeltica
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I have put up a the whole gig of Salsa Celtica with Fraser Fifield playing the pipes and whistles in the CINEMA section of MOVIES. One of todays GREAT whistlers. I have not compressed it so it is a big file. Hope you enjoy the dancer. Phil.
14/07/06 | LeMeur Whistles.
Phil Hardy
I said on the "Pro-File" the wrong web address for these whistles. Please note the actual address. www.webreizh.net/jplemeur jplemeur@hotmail.com Phil.(get it right!)
13/06/06 | Mozzilla FireFox
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,for all of you who want to buy from the Kerrywhistles SHOP.Please be advised that if you are using the Mozzilla Firefox brouser,you may experience difficulties on the payments section.Firefox seems to treat it as a pop up and will not continue. I'll check with our tech team and see if this can be rectified,but for now all purchases should be down through IE. (Internet Explorer) Sorry for any inconvenience. Phil.
07/06/06 | Three Low ds.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I have put a clip of three low Ds up.Songbird,Chieftain and KerryPro.Many have asked for this so it's in the "Pick of the Week" section of MOVIES. Phil.
06/06/06 | Chieftain Low Whistle Pack.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I am delighted to offer the new Chieftain Low Whistle Pack.This will comprise of a Chieftain low D with E and Eb bodies.The extra bodies come with their own hard plastic cases. This offer is only available from www.kerrywhistles.com in the SHOP dept.This deal with save you £30. Phil.
09/05/06 | Songbird HighD Mark II
Phil Hardy
Time for a makeover for the ol' high D Kerry Songbird. I've had some ideas how to get more out of them.I'll be making some block/plug modifications to improve backpressure and tonal quality.I am hoping to have them back in the SHOP by the start of the summer.If you have any Qs.Please email me at phil@kerrywhistles.com
02/05/06 | Kerry Songbird Low Ds Now in Stock
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,just a note to all you people waiting for Kerry Songbird Low Ds. I now have a plentiful supply of them in stock. They will only be available from www.kerrywhistles.com and NOT in any shops. Sorry for the long wait. Phil.
27/04/06 | McSherry Whistles
Phil Hardy
People are asking what low d does John use .
16/04/06 | NR & OS Chiefatins.
Phil Hardy
Here are the whistles again from another angle. Phil.
14/04/06 | Good Times.
Phil Hardy
What a bunch! Here I am with Rory Campbell,Mike Katz and Finlay McDonald backstage at the Cambridge Folk festival somewhere around 2000,they were all playing with John McCusker that year.I have many fond memories of the festival over the years and seeing Mariza (Portugal) 2 years ago was one of the hightlights.
14/04/06 | Ornet Coleman-Belfast.
Phil Hardy
Before the days of me having video,all I had was an SLR camera.This pic was taken some years ago when Mike McGoldrick,John Joe Kelly,Ed Boyd,John McSherry & Desi Donnelly were asked to jam with the legendary jazzer Ornet Coleman and his band.The lads even named a tune after this. This is the only pic of the event that I know of to capture the event. As Mike said sometime later " it was like 2 CDs playing at the same time"and I must admit it was dreadful,I only wish I had footage of the gig so you could hear the sound.Sadly this pic is all that is left. Phil.
12/04/06 | The Creamies.
Phil Hardy
Hi guys,I just came across some old tapes and pics of a band I was in in 1982. I have no idea what happend to the other guys. The good looking one on the left is Mick Posen(guitar-vox)),I think he does book cover illustrations,The guy in the middle is Harold Bergen(Vox-Keys-Guitars)was a sound engineer at the Garage in Islington.The last time I saw him was in 1991.A there is your 's truely(bass-vox) on the right,how young and fresh i look. You can hear more at www.myspace.com/thecreamies We were a radical/political reggea band and worked with some great people including Dominic Millar from Sting's band. Those were the days.
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09/04/06 | OS & NR Chieftains
Phil Hardy
Please use these official pictures as a reference to the difference between OS (old style) and NR (new range) Chieftain whistles. OS (on the right) whistles were made from 1996-2003. NR (on the left) were made from 2003 onwards. Below is a track from Whistle Graffiti using an NR Chieftain Low D.
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