Ireland's Whistling Ambassador: Micho Russell Of Doolin, County Clare

The 78-year-old Irish musical legend Micho Russell plays live before an audience at New York's Washington Square Church (in June 1992) and talks with Villanova University's Dr. Mick Moloney about his musical upbringing in County Clare, Ireland, in this semi-engaging portrait. Russell's instrument of choice is the Clarke tin whistle, on which he plays several tunes, including "Amazing Grace" (which is the only poorly played tune in its much-too-quick delivery), "John Philip Holland" (an ode to the inventor of the submarine), "The Yellow Wattle," and several other Irish slides, jigs, reels, and airs. A viewer's appreciation of the program will depend on how much he or she cares for the limited musical capabilities of the tin whistle (which, no question about it, Russell is a master at playing). The interview section is a little disappointing. Russell's command of English seems sketchy, and his answers to interviewer Moloney's questions are slow and occasionally confusing. As Russell speaks in Hiberno-English and Gaelic, the interview segments are subtitled. Attractively packaged, and affordably priced, Ireland's Whistling Ambassador will appeal to a limited audience, and is an optional purchase. (Available from: The Pennywhistler's Press, 467 W. 46th St., New York, NY 10036; (212) 247-3231.)