Wolf-whistling
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Wolf-whistling or Finger whistling is a type of whistling in which fingers are inserted in the mouth to produce a louder and more penetrating tone.
A Wolf-whistle is a specific sound commonly made using the above technique to show appreciation for something or someone (originally a person thought to be sexually attractive).
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[edit] Technique
Although the "wolf-whistle" sound can be produced using conventional whistling technique, a louder and more effective form, is usually used. To produce a wolf-whistle, one or more fingers are inserted into the mouth to shape the opening, allowing a forceful stream of air to be blown through.
Generally, the more air forced through the mouth, the louder the whistle.
[edit] "Melody"
The melodic form of the wolf-whistle has largely become standardized. It usually consists of two consecutive notes, one rising, the other descending. The first note ascends, by means of a sort of portamento (glide). The second note repeats the first, possibly a little shortened, but then descends by means of a slightly more drawn-out portamento, to approximately the low point from which the first glide sprang.
The term "wolf-whistle" developed around a slang use of the word "wolf" meaning a man who gives unwanted sexual attention to women.
[edit] Trivia
The sound of a wolf whistle can be imitated on a number of musical instruments, notably the Swanee whistle and slide guitar.
