The new Close-Spacing Howard Low D whistle in Silk Black finish.

A Game Changer
For centuries, instrument makers have explored ways to overcome the wide finger spacing demanded by the acoustics of low whistles. Solutions have included keys, angled tone holes and chimney-style modifications, but these approaches have generally been complex, labour-intensive or too expensive to make widely accessible.

The Howard Close Spacing project set out to change that.

Their goal wasn’t simply to move the finger holes closer together. It was to create a comfortable, accessible Low D that remained recognisably Howard—while keeping it within reach of everyday players.

Using precision-engineered acoustic modifiers, the finger holes can be positioned significantly closer together while preserving the tuning, balance and musicality expected from a Howard whistle. By combining modern manufacturing techniques with carefully developed acoustic design, the Close Spacing system makes this level of ergonomic improvement practical and affordable, bringing the unique voice of the Low D within reach of more players than ever before.

The result is an instrument that preserves the tuning, balance and musicality expected from a Howard whistle while developing its own distinctive voice.

Choosing the Right Spacing

Some players will continue to prefer the cleaner, more open character of the standard Howard Low D. Others will appreciate the Close Spacing’s more articulate, characterful voice together with its significantly improved ergonomics. Neither is intended to replace the other. They simply offer different playing experiences for different musicians.

The Low D whistle is a much larger instrument than a standard high D, and the wider finger spacing can make the lower holes difficult to reach for some players.
Hand size is only part of the story. Finger length, flexibility, technique and grip all affect how comfortable a Low D feels. Howard’s Close Spacing Low D whistle was developed for players who want a more comfortable reach without compromising the tuning or response of the instrument.

Why are Low D whistle holes so far apart?
The wide hole spacing of a conventional Low D is a consequence of its size and acoustic design. Tone-hole position affects tuning and response, so the holes cannot simply be moved closer together.

Developing the Howard Close Spacing Low D therefore required redesigning the instrument around a more compact finger position while maintaining accurate tuning and the character we wanted from the whistle.

Handcrafted in Sheffield

Every Howard Close Spacing whistle is individually handcrafted, assembled and tuned in Sheffield, England.

From machining and finishing to fitting the acoustic modifiers and final voicing, every instrument is built with the same attention to detail that defines every Howard whistle.
Because every musician deserves the opportunity to experience the remarkable sound of a Low D whistle.

A Low D whistle for smaller hands?

The Close Spacing model can be particularly helpful for players with smaller hands or limited flexibility, but it isn’t only designed for them. Some players simply find the reduced stretch more comfortable.

Low whistles are normally played using piper’s grip, which helps the fingers cover the larger holes and reduces the stretch required. We still recommend piper’s grip with the Close Spacing Low D, but the closer hole positions make the reach easier.

Classic or Close Spacing?

If you are comfortable with traditional Low D finger spacing, the Classic is likely to be the natural choice.

If you have struggled to reach or reliably cover the holes on a Low D, have smaller hands or limited flexibility, or simply prefer a more relaxed playing position, the Close Spacing Low D may be the better choice.

There is no correct choice based purely on hand size. The important thing is that your hands can settle naturally onto the whistle, allowing you to concentrate on the music rather than the stretch.

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