An Arts Project of theFranklin County Historical Society
3585 US-401 SouthLouisburg, North Carolina 27549

Suggestions forFirst-Time Whistlers
2011

Competition in whistling contests is like other contests where you must be well preparedwith rehearsals, develop self-confidence, and be motivated to win. Following are some suggestions for the whistlers who are participating in the IWC contest for the first time.
WHISTLING SCHOOL Perhaps you may wish to register for classes in the International School
for Whistlers in Louisburg preceding the contest. Whistling School will help you overcome stage
fright, improve your skill, and increase your confidence.. Whistling school is for all skill levels.
SONG CHOICE If you know an experienced or professional whistler, seek advice on whatsongs best fit your personal style.
PRACTICE Practice, practice, practice, as in any performing art or sports activity. There is no
substitute for practice.
SUPPORT MUSIC
Choose superior quality tapes or CDs for your backup. The judges willappreciate this and so will the audience. Please, no vocal music or whistling background on yourbackup tapes.
TAPE DIFFICULTY If something goes wrong technically with your tape when you present it
to the stage technician, rather than stand and become more nervous, look toward the MC who bythat time should be saving the delay with announcements of information. If the difficulty becomes prolonged, the MC will continue with the next contestant on the schedule and return toyou when your tape is ready.
SOUND CLARITY Choose only instrumental music to prevent the sounds of vocalists orchoirs interfering with the purity of your whistling—particularly in the classical selection. (SeeSupport Music above.)
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS If you plan to use a musical instrument(s) live (Allied Arts only),
be sure it is of good quality, tuned and ready, to prevent it from being a distraction to the judges
and audience.
AUDIENCE Look at the audience, not the ceiling or the floor. Some whistlers close their eyesand show deep emotion by facial expressions. This may be effective and impress both the judges
and the audience, but it would not be an advantage if its overuse appears to be avoiding the audience.
TIMING Choose your selections to be within the contest time: Classical, 5 minutes or less; Popular, 4 minutes or less; and Allied Arts, 4 minutes or less. (See also Information Sheet.)
DRESS CODE The IWC does not require a particular dress code. What the board of directors
has noticed during the past is that most whistlers dress in business clothes (and sometimes blacktie or formal gowns) for Classical music and choose casual clothes for their Popular music. Allied
Arts can be more theatrical with a wide range of choices.
WHISTLING STYLE The IWC does not prescribe a particular type or style of whistling. Some
whistlers pucker to whistle out, some whistle in, some do both. Others whistle through their teethor use their fingers or hands. (The IWC has noted that judges in the past have given nationalchampionship to whistlers who use their fingers, their hands, and on one occasion to a ventriloIWCMasters/FirstTimeWhistlersSuggIWC2 7/2008

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quist.) However, in recent years, a substantial majority of whistling contestants, professionals,and judges have requested the guidelines for classical and popular music emphasize the pucker style. The IWC encourages the judges to be as flexible as possible in their judgment of whistling styles as an art form. If in doubt, the IWC suggests that you inform the chief judge ofyour feelings or intentions.
CLASSIC EMPHASIS The IWC has noticed that some judges expect classical selections tobe treated formally. Suggestions have been to treat the music as would an opera singer withpoise, grace and appropriate gestures. The IWC leaves the choice open to individual whistlers.
LIP BALM AND WATER Whistlers have dry mouths and lips like all other vocalists. Be
prepared immediately before going on stage to use you favorite lip balm, and have a glass ofwater nearby.
FIRST-TIME SESSION Attend the session for whistlers who are participating for the firsttime, usually during the whistling school. This will give you a chance to ask questions, about
these guidelines and other topics.
CONVENTION EVENTS Try to attend all the events of the Convention. As a result you
can meet new and more seasoned whistlers who identify with your feelings about whistling.
ASSISTANCE

Ask about things you need. Someone will be available to help.

HAPPY WHISTLING!! Do not take whistling too seriously. Relax, enjoy it, and share timeand suggestions with others. If you do not win all the awards you strive for this year, there
will be another time. Happy Whistling!
YOUR NOTES

Additional Information Learned at This Convention

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