Outline:
A New Era for the Tin Whistle
The tin whistle, a simple yet iconic instrument, often brings back memories of primary school days. For many, it was associated with loud and out-of-tune renditions of traditional songs like “Hot Cross Buns” and “Cockles and Mussels.” Most of us probably put it away after sixth grade, never thinking much of it again. However, one musician has given this humble instrument a fresh and modern twist, capturing the attention of millions online.
Tara Howley, a multi-instrumentalist, has taken the tin whistle to new heights by playing pop songs on it. Her unique approach has led to her becoming an internet sensation, especially with her covers of Taylor Swift’s hits. This unexpected fusion of traditional music and contemporary pop has sparked a renewed interest in the tin whistle.
Tara has a rich background in music, having performed on various stages over the years. She has been part of notable groups such as Riverdance and The 2 Johnnies’ band. However, it was during the pandemic that she began uploading her tin whistle covers to TikTok, which marked the beginning of her online journey.
“I’ve always played pop songs on the tin whistle,” Tara shared. “I had toured with Riverdance from 2015 until the pandemic shut it down in 2020. Back in 2020, I started uploading them — I did an Eminem song, and Doireann Garrihy played it on 2FM for me, and that’s how I got an online following.”
Her initial uploads caught the attention of many, leading to a growing fanbase. “My phone started hopping, and I was like ‘oh my god, what’s going on?’ so it actually started years ago.”
Despite the common perception of the tin whistle as a difficult instrument, Tara believes it has more to offer than just childhood memories. She is a multi-instrumentalist who plays 14 different instruments, and the tin whistle holds a special place in her heart. “I used to teach before I went on tour,” she explained. “I always loved the tin whistle, and I know people are like ‘oh, it’s awful, it’s awful,’ but it’s actually not.”
She added that the tin whistle can be used for a variety of purposes, from playing traditional tunes like “Sean South of Garryowen” to being a party piece. “I think there’s definitely a resurgence of the whistle online. Some people are dusting off the cobwebs, saying ‘I haven’t played this in ages!’”
Tara gained significant attention for her tin whistle covers of Taylor Swift songs, particularly “Our Song” from Taylor’s debut album. The video received nearly 800,000 views on TikTok, showcasing the widespread appeal of her talent.
Her covers have also sparked interest among Taylor Swift fans, with many curious about the instrument. “I got accepted [by the Swifties], I think,” Tara joked. “I remember thinking ‘oh my god, am I gonna get destroyed!’ But they’re just a very happy bunch, they were like ‘oh my god, is that a recorder? What instrument is this? It sounds like a little fairy.’”
Tara has been a fan of Taylor Swift for over two decades, recalling how she used to play the debut album on her Walkman. “I got the debut album on CD and put it in my Walkman and used to walk around with my Walkman on my jeans with my headphones thinking I was so cool.”
For those inspired by Tara’s talent and looking to learn the tin whistle, she is set to release a beginner’s guide. “I’m releasing a beginner whistle book in the coming months,” she revealed. “And I’m working with a whistle company that I got my very first one from — they’re an Irish company, and that’s something really special.”
Tara encourages anyone interested in learning the tin whistle to take the plunge. “Just go for it [and learn],” she said. “Don’t be afraid, it’s gonna be so cool. If you’re at any party or any gathering, you won’t have to worry about being called out for singing a song, you can just pull out the whistle.”
She also noted that the perception of traditional music has changed over the years. “It certainly wasn’t cool to play trad when I was younger,” she admitted. “But now it’s cool. When I was in school, during the summer and the Fleadh was on, but no one knew what it was, but we’d go every summer. But now, everyone’s like ‘oh, we’re going to the Fleadh,’ and I’m like ‘that’s so cool.’”
Tara’s journey highlights the evolving appreciation for traditional music and instruments. “People are proud of it again, and just the culture and music. It’s great.”
You can follow Tara on TikTok and Instagram at @TaraHowleyMusic.