The 10 most important Feadog whistles performers in Irish traditional music – Part 1

by Joao Ferreira

Today I will start to write about traditional Irish culture. More specifically about traditional Irish musicians, who made the Feadog tin whistle the pencil to write one of the richest cultures throughout the world.

I will outline the 10 most important Feadog tin whistle players in Ireland and why they were so remarkable to the country. It is a good opportunity to get inspired and pick one of these ten to have as your own reference.

This first part I will start with 5. Next week I come back to complete the list.

1 – Tommy Makem 

Tommy was born and raised in Keady, County Armagh. He was an internationally celebrated Irish folk musician, artist, poet and storyteller. He was best known as a member of the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem. He was sometimes known as “The Bard of Armagh” and “The Godfather of Irish Music”.

Remarkable Composition: “Four Green Fields”

2 – Paddy Moloney

Paddy Moloney was born in Donnycarney, Dublin, Ireland. is an Irish musician, composer, and producer who is the founder and leader of the Irish musical group The Chieftains and has played on every one of their albums.

Remarkable Composition: “Braveheart Soundtrack”

3 – Sean Potts

Sean was an Irish musician. Born in The Liberties, Dublin, he was best known for his tin whistle playing and his long history with The Chieftains, being partner of Paddy. After Sean retired from the traditional scene, he could still be found playing at traditional festivals around the country and occasionally abroad.

4 – Mary Bergin

Mary Bergin was born in Shankill, County Dublin, Ireland. She is an Irish folk musician who is widely acknowledged as one of the great masters of the tin whistle. She plays in both the Irish Traditional and Baroque styles. She plays the whistle “left-handed”, with the right hand covering the upper tone holes, unlike most whistle players who play with the left hand on top. Mary’s playing is characterized by great feeling, technical virtuosity, and a respect for the music.

Remarkable Composition: “Rileanna”

5 – Carmel Gunning

Carmel is an Irish composer and musician, from Sligo, Ireland. Gunning is one of Ireland’s most accomplished tin whistle players who is also known for her singing. Carmel’s rich stylised form of whistle playing and tradition stems from her homeland of Geevagh in South County Sligo. This background and tradition aided Gunning’s introduction to traditional Irish music which took place at an early age. Gunning is noted for her fast-paced tin whistle style.

Remarkable compositions: “The Sligo Maid” book of 64 compositions are reels Drinks on the House and Bring on the Poteen.”

I believe after these first 5 inspiring musicians you`ve got interested to start and learn how to play our Feadog Whistles. Browse our website and look for the one that fits your needs. If you are already a player becomes our fan visiting our Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to be aware of tips and further information.

See you next article and the next 5 inspiring Feadog Whistles performers.