What kind of piccolo should I get/play?

That all depends on the kind of playing you expect to use it for.  If you are planning to use it outside for marching band most of the time, get a metal piccolo.  These instruments were designed to be played outside.  The sound really carries and can be heard over the entire band. 

On the other hand, if you expect to be playing piccolo in both concert band and marching band, invest in a plastic instrument with either a metal or plastic headjoint.  Plastic is sturdy enough to take the weather but is not as bright sounding as metal so it works better indoors. 

Finally, if you only expect to be playing indoors in band or orchestra, get a wooden piccolo.  These instruments have a sweeter sound that blends well with strings and other wind instruments. 

How is piccolo different than flute?

Everything is smaller.  Your hands and fingers are closer together.  The embouchure you use has a smaller hole.  The lip adjustments are more subtle.  You need less air but more body energy (support).

General advice about playing the piccolo

Back off the blowing -- you will just shoot your lip.  You don't need to blow hard to get the high notes.  Learn to direct the air in the right direction and support. Intonation on piccolo is different than flute.  Listen carefully to pitch on middle C#, D, Eb and E.  Also high C, C# and D are especially problematical on many instruments. Learn special fingerings to help with pitch.  A great place to look is The Woodwind Fingering Guide.  There is also good information on Larry Krantz's site.    Be sure your headjoint cork is in the correct position.  Check this with the end of your piccolo cleaning rod.  The slash mark should be right in the middle of the blow hole.  Even being a little off can make a huge difference with piccolo.   

Dr. Cate Hummel.
Copyright � 1999 The Flute Line. All rights reserved.
Last revised: June 23, 2016.