Young people aged between seven and 11 are being invited to take part in a free beginners’ tin whistle workshop at Douglas City Library next week.

The one-off session, titled ‘Feddan: Manx Tin Whistle Workshop for Beginners’, will take place on Tuesday, August 25, from 2.30pm to 3.30pm and is open to children of all musical abilities, including those with no previous experience.

Feddan is the Manx word for whistle.

Led by Culture Vannnin’s Manx music development officer Dr Chloe Woolley, the workshop will introduce participants to the basics of playing the tin whistle while also giving them the opportunity to explore Manx music and language.

During the hour-long session, children will learn some of the fundamentals of playing the instrument before trying out a Manx Gaelic song and a selection of simple tunes.

Chloe said: ‘I will teach the very basics of playing the tin whistle and the children will learn to play a couple of easy tunes and a song or two in Manx Gaelic.

‘The workshop is aimed at youngsters who'd like to give the whistle a try, and it is based on the ‘Feddan’ Manx whistle course and booklet now taught in many schools around the island.’

The event has been organised by Jan Macartney from Douglas City Library and is being held as part of ‘Read the Beat’ and Blein ny Gaelgey – the Year of the Manx Language 2026.

Participants can bring their own D tin whistle, borrow one during the session or purchase one to take home for £9.

Chloe said the workshop is intended to make Manx music and language more accessible to young people and encourage them to explore opportunities beyond the session.

She said: ‘It's important that we offer these kinds of accessible workshops, where anyone has the chance to have a go.

‘Maybe it will inspire a young person to take up an instrument at school, start learning Manx, enter the annual Manx Folk Awards (organised by Culture Vannin and DESC) or the “Guild” Manx Music Festival, or come along with their instrument to the Bree monthly Manx music sessions at Culture Vannin.’

The workshop is based on the ‘Feddan’ resources, which are designed to help people learn to play Manx tunes and songs. Those unable to attend in person can also access the materials online.

A growing collection of Manx tunes, songs and dances is available through the ‘Learn’ section of ManxMusic.com, allowing people to explore the island’s musical heritage and develop their skills at their own pace.

The organisers are encouraging children interested in music, the Manx language or trying a new instrument to take advantage of the free session.

Places are limited and must be reserved in advance through Douglas City Library on Duke Street.

For more information about the workshop and the wider range of Manx music resources available, visit the Manx Music website.