When my doctor told me to breathe more deeply, I didn’t expect it to lead me into a full-blown obsession with Irish traditional music. But somehow… it did. By sheer accident, I stumbled across a video of Brian Hughes playing a hauntingly beautiful tune on the Wild Irish Whistle. The tone was warm, rich, and utterly captivating. It didn’t just sound nice… it stirred something deeper. And I thought, Maybe this is the kind of breathing my doctor was talking about.
A Different Kind of Instrument
Here’s the thing they don’t tell you when they say “stay active” after 50: Not all activity is equal. You can lift weights. You can walk the dog. But when you create something — when your breath becomes music. Playing the Wild Irish Whistle has become my evening ritual. A few simple tunes before bed. A moment of calm before the day ends. And somehow, it resets me. And yes — my breathing’s better too. Who knew?
A Quiet Joy You Can Carry Anywhere
It fits in my coat pocket. I’ve taken it to the park, on weekend trips, even to the back garden where the birds occasionally join in. There’s something grounding about it. No screens. No noise. Just breath and sound. And for someone reconnecting with his Irish roots (even if it’s just a sliver of ancestry), this whistle feels like a thread to something older, something timeless. Not Just an Instrument — A Companion.
What I love about this whistle is that it meets you where you are. You don’t need to be a musician. You don’t need to read music. You just need to listen, play, and let the melodies guide you. The tone is something else. Smooth, soulful, and full of character. It’s no surprise that Brian Hughes himself has praised it, calling it “an exceptional instrument” — and that’s coming from one of the greats. Whether I’m working on a slow air or a classic jig, the Wild Irish Whistle responds beautifully. It’s like it wants to tell a story… it just needs your breath to begin.
So… What Are You Breathing Life Into?
If you’re 50 or beyond, and looking for something meaningful to bring into your day — something that calms the mind, strengthens the lungs, and stirs the spirit — I can’t recommend this enough. No, it won’t turn you into a concert musician overnight. But it will give you a few quiet minutes each day that are entirely yours. And maybe that’s what we’re really craving after all these years. Explore the Wild Irish Whistle here.
Share your thoughts
Play a little guitar and harmonica, always loved the sound of the Irish whistle
When I bought a whistle from you about a month ago it was advertised as coming with a month of free online classes, but I can’t find a link on your website. Could you please help?
Hi Susan! Thanks for your purchase of the whistle, we're excited to hear how you get along with it! You should have received an email titled "Free Tin Whistle Masterclass Access!" with links and instructions to access your online classes. If you don't see that in your inbox, go ahead and reach out to our customer service at [email protected] and they'll help you get everything sorted.
I have played whistle as an occasional thing for many years. My fiancé has recently started on it. I may pick up a Wild Irish Whistle for her. In what way McNeela whistles differ from Generation or Oak or Feadog metal whistles? Thanks
Great question, Paul! There's a range of features with the Wild Irish Whistles that make them so special... the delrin fipple, hefty brass body, easy range across octaves, and more. You'll get a great rundown if you take a look at Brian Hughes' review here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IBETdsQsFc He plays a couple gorgeous tunes for you, too!
Hello, I hope you're well. Could you please tell me what type of whistle Brian Hughes plays on the slow airs of his album "Meascra Whistle Stop"? Specifically, I'd like to know the key (D, C, Bb, etc.) and whether it's a low whistle or a high. Thank you very much!
I don't think we have that info, José, I'm sorry! If you look for the ABC notation for the airs, they'll likely list the keys they're usually played in. That could be a good place to start.