Imitations of birds are a popular trope in classical music. While many of these are achieved with woodwind instruments, sometimes a more specific piece of kit is required, especially in modern compositions. Read more…

Imitations of birds are a popular trope in classical music. While many of these are achieved with woodwind instruments, sometimes a more specific piece of kit is required, especially in modern compositions. Acme’s range of bird call whistles caters very well for these situations. A performance of John Cage’s experimental Water Music might include both Acme’s duck call and slide whistle, and the latter makes an appearance in Ravel’s single act opera L'enfant et les sortilèges. The crow and rook whistle is great for musical sound effects too, but can also be used by wildlife photographers looking for a decoy!

Percussion Plus' Honestly Made range features some beautifully made bird calls too, such as the ceramic bird whistle ocarina and the hooting owl.