Piccolo Trumpet

Piccolo trumpets are small versions of standard trumpets, the tubing being only half the length of what a common trumpet would have. The most common types of piccolo trumpets come in B-flat and A, although models can be found tuned to C, F and G for those looking for something more unique. Piccolo trumpets also have four valves as opposed to the usual three.

Picking up the piccolo trumpet is not a task to be taken lightly. These trumpets are known for being some of the most difficult to play and are not the best instruments for a beginner to start out on. They are harder to get a good tone on, harder to play in tune, and harder to maintain the correct volume on. Most trumpeters spend time learning the standard B-flat or A trumpet before making the decision to move on to a piccolo. Mastering the piccolo requires a lot of time, practice and patience.

More than with other trumpets, it is important to purchase a decent brand when picking up a piccolo. Off-brand piccolos will give a buyer exactly when they paid for – a trumpet with a bad sound. Since piccolos have the added dimension of being harder to play than a standard trumpet, a sub-standard instrument can be nearly impossible to get a good sound out of. For beginners this is especially important, as repeated failures in producing at least passable music can be quite discouraging. Brands like Amati, Winston, Monique and Maestro all have bad reputations for being junk instruments.

A brand like Getzen is a less expensive option for the beginning piccolo player, though these trumpets still start out around £800. For professional players, Schilkes have outstanding reputations, so much so that it is often difficult to find them available. The Schilke P5-4 model of piccolo is renowned for being the professional instrument of choice. Yamaha has a growing reputation as well in the piccolo market. Their instruments generally start out around £900 and their durability makes it well worth the cost in the long run.

When first starting out on the piccolo trumpet, finding a good brand and buying it used is the most cost-efficient way to go. People who play piccolos are usually devoted to their art and tend to treat their instruments quite well. Therefore, if one finds a piccolo used, chances are it will be in excellent condition.

Whatever type of piccolo trumpet one settles on, it is best to try playing them before making the purchase. Due to the difficulty in learning, these trumpets are simply not for everyone. Only the most dedicated and hard-working trumpeters will be able to master the piccolo and produce the amazing sounds that it is capable of.