Of course, one answer is to use the bottom B3 finger on the B3 hole, lifting it when necessary. After a week or so, this technique began to feel pretty natural. Meanwhile, it felt like some sort of additional support would be helpful in adjusting to the size, weight and grip of the larger instrument.
My first idea was to add a thumbrest. But the plastic thumbrests I have were either the wrong size or too brittle to snap into position. And sliding up from the bottom might risk scratching the whistle.
So taking a cue from the world of recorders (and maybe saxophones!), I devised a Low D thumb strap that would meet the following criteria:
o Support the weight of the instrument.
o Place bottom hand in proper piper's grip position.
o Adjustable length.
o Non-permanent attachment to the instrument.
o No damage, scratches etc. to the instrument.
o No effect on intonation
o Comfortable enough for extended playing.
After trying out a few different ideas, I decided on this simple but effective design:
The hook is a standard brass picture hanger wall hook covered in black plastic heat-shrink tubing to protect and cushion the whistle. And the strap is a 27-inch soft woven round shoelace (that happens to be green!), tied in a sort of double loop to fit the size of my hand and whistle. If there's any interest, I can post details about coating the hook and tying the strap.
Here it is in action:
The hook simply hooks the bell of the whistle, and is small enough not to affect intonation. The strap loops over the bottom thumb and places it approximately behind the B1 hole. You can fine-adjust the length of the strap by positioning the hook around the bell and/or by twisting the strap a time or two to shorten it.
It's comfortable to use, it enforces a consistent bottom hand position, and it's not too conspicuous. A kind of "training wheels" for the Low D, but suitable for regular use, too.
It's also cheap, and any combination of cord/string and small non-scratching hook might do. I used parts on hand, but purchased new the cost is roughly:
Package of picture hangers: $1
Pair of Shoelaces: $2
Heat-shrink tubing: $1
TOTAL: $4
Among recorder players there have been debates about the good and bad effects of using thumb supports. So maybe this sort of device isn't for you. Otherwise, a thumb strap might be just the thing for anyone who wants or needs additional Low D support.
Questions and comments are welcome ... Enjoy!
).