Impending Clucth Failure?

[Bryan Foster]

Listers,
I have recently noticed a whining (whirring) sound that is RPM dependent
only when I
depress the clutch.  It disappears when the clutch is let out, in neutral
or in gear.  It is even pretty loud when you place your foot on the pedal
with light pressure, before the clutch is disengaged.  Also the pedal
seems to vibrate alot.  Is this a throwout bearing failure? What does that
mean?

Recently I feel like the clutch is engaging earlier (closer to the floor).

How much $$ am I looking at to have the clutch replaced by a shop? ANy
good clutch places in Boston?

As always thanks in advance.
Bryan Foster
140k