Re: [scots-l] Tin Whistle Bands

[Stuart Eydmann]

Manuel asked:   Hello there, I'm doing from time to time some research on pennywhistle history, and I came once to one reference to a Tin Whistle Band in Glasgow, in the book "Voices from the War" Grace Kennedy says: “(...)But I remember the Boilermakers’ Tin Whistle Band going round Govan during the boilermakers’ lock-out or strike in 1910.” (Voices from War, p. 40)   Does anyone knows any more about these bands, history, characteristics, etc? _______________________________________________________________________     Unfortunately, I can't find the reference in my archives yet but I have notes from elsewhere which record that bands were formed using tin whistles where more expensive fifes or flutes could not be afforded with a view to upgrading later. Several of the trade unions and similar organisations in Central Scotland had flute bands which accompanied marches, demonstrations and gala day parades. I'll keep looking for the reference.   In Glasgow in 1891 Nickle (sic) penny whistles ranged in price from 2s 3d for a G to 4s 6d for a Bb. Brass models were 1s - 2s 3d. No doubt cheaper versions (including home made) were available.   A 3 piece Bb band flute was 3s 6d with one key, 12s with 4 keys and 16s with 6 keys and a tuning slide. F flutes were 20s with 6 keys and slide or 4s 6d with just one key. Second quality flutes were from 2s 6d.   The histories of the penny whistle and flute bands in Scotland have still to be written. I'd be very interested in any further refrences to Scotland.   Stuart Eydmann