Chinese Whistle, Tang dynasty - Public domain museum image. A black and white photo of a stone object

The whistle is a musical instrument that produces sound by blowing air through a small opening. It has been used for various purposes throughout history, including signaling, communication, and music. Whistles have been found in archaeological sites dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. They were used by soldiers as a means of communication during battles, and by shepherds to control their flocks.