From the Publisher

When Robert Clarke invented his tinwhistle in 1843, little did he know that his humble little instrument was destined to become just about the most popular player of tunes in the whole folk music world. This is the story of how it happened.

Norman Dannatt has done some excellent primary research and uncovered many hitherto unknown details about Robert Clarke and the Clarke Tinwhistle Company. A must-read for tinwhistle history buffs! - Bill Ochs

About the Author

Norman started his career in Wartime ENSA as a professional musician in the theatre. He had trained as a performer (piano, organ, sax, clarinet and percussion) and, after the war, became a composer for many shows in London’s West End theatres. Then, after training as a teacher, he taught in secondary, junior and infant schools. For the last 11 years until he retired, he was School Inspector for Music to the London Borough of Havering. Since retirement he has continued working as a part-time lecturer in music education and as a consultant to several musical instrument firms, including, of course, the Clarke Tinwhistle Company.