Hi Jiggers, lots of good advice given here already. Here's my twopenneth, find the whistle that is right for you, and it doesn't have to be expensive. I love Clarke's Sweetone whistles,they're only £3.50 each buy half a dozen of them and you'll find one or two good ones. The others I give to any kids you come accross that show an intrest in the whistle. in a session I play a Susato, thats loud enough to hear yourself playing. I've got a Dixon, but I find it a bit quiet, with a thin sound, and I've got a wooden one a Gael (Music Room special) great for ten minutes or so but then it has to be rested for ten. As for tunes, the dots are a start point not the definative version, don't get stressed trying to get every note in, simplify the tune, and enjoy playing, as you get more relaxed you will find that your fingers find more of the notes. The more you enjoy what your playing the better you'll play. You are your own worst critic