Despite their diminutive size, beginner piccolos come in a wide range of quality. Investing in a high-quality piccolo from a reputable manufacturer will ensure that it is in tune and produces a richer sound as a starter instrument. It’ll also be more convenient to play, which is always a plus! That is why we have compiled this list of the Best Piccolo Brands. Getting a handcrafted instrument from a well-known and trusted brand is worth it for any piccolo players. These will include extra features that will make playing those tricky high notes a little bit simpler.
Piccolos for students are frequently more expensive than regular flutes. Don’t be taken aback by this! Because of their small size, they are more difficult to produce and therefore more expensive. Imagine creating your favorite supper meal, but it has to be a fourth of the size it usually is. This piccolo buying guide will walk you through some of the greatest piccolo brands available, in the hopes of assisting you in finding your ideal instrument.
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Armstrong 204 the USA Student Piccolo Standard
- Model 204 USA Student Piccolo Standard
The Armstrong 204 is a great piccolo for beginners. It performed admirably and was my first piccolo that I bought and played. It has a lip plate because it’s a metal type, which can make playing the piccolo simpler for beginners. Since it has a metal body, this piccolo also has a hand rest for the first finger on the left hand. On many other piccolos, the metal tubing is generally thinner than the plastic or wood tubing.
It was simple to play this piccolo in the college marching band where I utilized it. Although the piccolo is easier to hear, any flute can use it because of its metal head and body. It’s a great option for any outdoor performance, including marching band. Although you may use it indoors, it can be a little strident. Additionally, you could struggle to fit in with other musicians. Still, if you’re a newbie, give this a shot. You can keep it on hand as a backup instrument in case you ever upgrade.
Pearl PFP105E Piccolo Flute
- Split E Mechanism
- Grenaditte High Wave headjoint
- Pointed cup arms
Now, here’s a piccolo that will exceed your expectations—the Pearl PFP15E is a sonic revolution in the Piccolo world. The Pearl PFP15E Piccolo Flute is a high-quality instrument that will appeal to students, intermediates, and returning professionals alike.
The PFP15E’s material design is noteworthy in that its entire body is built of Grenadilla—a design that withstands all types of temperature and humidity fluctuations while retaining exact pitch and tonal center.
Along with the Pearls Pinless mechanism, the Pearl PFP15E Piccolo has a split E key mechanism that allows the player to switch between two independent keys. The PFP15E’s sound effect consists of high notes that virtually jump out and are incredibly easy to play. The piccolo is housed in a casing that also accommodates the conical head joint and the wave head joint. While playing this lovely design, there is no loss of sound.
The Pearl PFP415E is often recognized as the most affordable piccolo. According to our research, the PFP15E is on par with all of the pro-line piccolos in terms of response and sound quality. The Pearl PFP415E piccolo alone is well worth the price of admission. The Pear PFP415E is a Piccolo that can be used outside without worry, and you’ll be glad you bought it as the Best Piccolos for Beginners in 2023.
Jupiter JPC1010 Piccolo
- Plastic body and headjoint
- Silver-plated nickel silver keys
- Molded case, Key of C
The Jupiter JPC1010 Piccolo is a piccolo with a hefty resin body that is designed to simulate the sound quality and feel of a top-of-the-line real wood piccolo. Despite the fact that the Jupiter JPC1010 was designed with the primary goal of performing on stage, the sturdy resin body allows this great instrument to be played and enjoyed outside without fear of cracks.
The Jupiter JPC1010 piccolo is a C-key piccolo with silver-plated nickel silver keys that allow for free-flowing playing. The ABS resin body benefits the gamer in two ways. First, because of the resin’s high pitch, it produces a lot of sound. This sound quality is appropriate for the stage and encourages players, whether intermediate or novice, to improve and continue performing. Second, the Piccolo’s ABS resin body ensures its durability, independent of the location of the performance. It avoids the worry of cracks and early instrument damage.
The Jupiter JPC1010 Piccolo’s ABS head joint aids in the production of outstanding sound by making the instrument easier to tune for any marching bands. It also ensures the instrument’s endurance, as the ABS resin head joint has the potential to survive a long period.
The Jupiter JPC1010 also features a conical bore that is exceptionally responsive to touches, weather conditions and provides superb intonation throughout the instrument’s length. It comes with a plastic case that makes storing a breeze.
RS Berkeley P101 Elite Series Silver Plated Piccolo with Case and Accessories
- Beautiful silver plated keys on the head and body
- Stainless steel springs
- Drawn tone holes; Ribbed key posts
This instrument provides an equal opportunity for all players to put their skills to the test and benefit greatly, regardless of their current ability level. Because Berkeley is known for making high-quality instruments that maximize a player’s abilities while boosting clarity and intonation, this piccolo is trusted and reliable. The RS Berkeley P101 piccolo has highly gorgeous silver plated keys fitted on the head and body of the instrument. It contains stainless steel springs that maintain the keys firmly in place and ensure consistent flow and control while playing and moving around the keys.
The precision sound creation and fine intonation are further enhanced by the drawn tone holes that match the stainless springs. While the shredded key post ensures consistency in sound output, the instrument’s entire design as a C key ensures high-quality sound and comfort while playing.
Although the RS Berkeley P101 is described as a beginner instrument, the keys resonance and overall sound output imply it may be used by intermediates and elite marching band, pep band, and orchestra performers. The P101 piccolo comes with a storage container that is both portable and robust, as well as cleaning rod and cleaning cloth.
Yamaha YPC-32 Piccolo
- Silver-plated Nickel Silver Headjoint Keys
- Student Piccolo with ABS Resin Body
- E Mechanism
This is the brand’s step-up or midrange model, which is designed for players with some expertise. As a result, it can be used by both semi-professionals and professionals. The head joint is a typical design that comes in two variations. A silver-plated key mechanism makes up the rest of the piccolo.
It also features the brand’s signature split E mechanism. Compared to other Yamaha piccolos, this one has a little more warmth to the tone, despite piccolos being known for their high pitch. The quality of this instrument’s sound has more depth, as you can hear. This is why, whether you’re seeking to upgrade or dive deeper into the world of the piccolo, it’s a fantastic choice. It’s a good-sounding, free-blowing instrument that requires minimal effort to play.
The concave-shaped keys have a great feel to them and allow you to place your fingertips exactly where you want them. When designing this Yamaha piccolo, the designers concentrated on making a more responsive and clear high E. It is a durable instrument that is suitable for marching scenarios.
Because of its concave keys, it is a simple to play instrument that would be a good fit for everyone. It has a deeper piccolo sound, indicating that it is a high-quality instrument, which is why it is suitable for experienced players seeking a mellower tone. This piccolo is easy to play for beginners because it is free-blowing and does not demand the player to blow too forcefully. The high E is highly sensitive, and it produces a sound that is clearer than other models.
Those who play the piccolo in a marching band will benefit greatly from this instrument because it is durable and produces a good tone at all times. The tone is clear, which makes it suitable for live performance. This is the Best Piccolo for Beginners in 2023.
Gemeinhardt 4PMH Piccolo Black Plastic/Silver Plated
- Conical Bore
- High Impact Plastic Body
- Silver-Plated Head Joint
When the term “Gemeinhardt” is mentioned, all band teachers grin, and students race to get their hands on one of the best instruments on the market. Gemeinhardt is a well-known name in the musical instrument industry, and with the debut of the Gemeinhardt 4PMH Piccolo, the business maintains its position as a top-tier producer.
The Gemeinhardt 4PMH Piccolo is designed specifically for students and beginners. It has a silver plated head that highlights the beauty of a high-impact plastic, making it a light-weighted piccolo that is comfortable to play. The Gemeinhardt 4PMH piccolo is ideal for beginning students who are concerned about durability and outdoor performance.
Plastic piccolos are widely known for their suitability for such scenarios, since they work exceptionally well in conditions of severe humidity and temperature while requiring the bare minimum of care and maintenance.
The Gemeinhardt 4PMH Piccolo has a conical barrel and high-impact plastic, as well as beryllium copper springs that make accessing the silver-plated keys considerably easier for the player. This piccolo’s quality also makes it suitable for intermediate players.
Mendini MPO-S Silver Plated Key of C Piccolo with Case
- Silver plated body and keys
- Key of C Piccolo, Closed Hole
- Undercut beveled embouchure, High quality double bladder pads, & Ergonomic...
Teachers recommend Mendini by Cecilio Piccolo as a great instrument. The best-selling status of these incredible instruments is well-known. These fantastic instruments are the greatest choice for newcomers because they are so simple to use. Teachers often recommend these piccolos for beginners since they are extremely easy to play and comfortable to play.
Mendini piccolo is known for its exquisite features and faultless finishing, and it is also highly recommended by professionals. It has an undercut beveled embouchure, is well-known for its exceptional craftsmanship, and has high-grade twin bladder cushions and an ergonomic finger brace, all of which add to its beauty and individuality.
This fantastic product is available at a very reasonable price. Because of its outstanding features, professionals use this fantastic instrument in their best performances. This excellent instrument is easy to play even for novices. This product’s sound is so clean and rich that everyone would enjoy listening to it. Because of their cost and high quality, teachers recommend these products to their students.
Sky Piccolo Key C (Red/Gold)
- Sky(Paititi) Band Approved Wine Red Laquer with Gold Keys Piccolo Key of C...
The body of the Sky piccolo is hot pink laquer with gold plated keys. This wonderful instrument is well-known for its low cost. This is available for purchase at a very low cost. This fantastic gadget is simple to use even for beginners. If you are a beginner, this product is the greatest option for you to improve your musical abilities.
Music professors offer this fantastic instrument to their students, and musical bands also recommend it to new learners and pros because it is simple to use and built to keep professionals comfortable on stage during their best performances. The Sky Piccolo comes with a sturdy cover that protects the instrument. The piccolo can be protected from damage by the velvet lining on the interior. The Sky piccolo may be maintained using a cleaning rod and cloth to increase its longevity.
This fantastic device also includes a C key and a C foot joint. This excellent product is known for its simple high notes that sound forceful, deep, and rich. It has fantastic characteristics, and you will undoubtedly enjoy this fantastic product. This is an excellent option for beginners through intermediate players.
Ravel RPC202 Student Piccolo
- ABS Body
- Metal Headjoint
- Key of C, Offset G
The fact that this piccolo is not made by a well-known brand should not deter you from purchasing it. In fact, this little instrument exceeds most expectations. Its ABS body provides a robust design and the impression that this instrument is built to last, while the metal headjoints deliver the sound and feel you require.
You won’t have to pay too much for it because it’s not from a well-known brand, and it comes with all the accessories you’ll ever need, including a protective case. You’ll need that case to protect the keys’ nickel plating from scratches and damage. You’ll like how sensitive the instrument is, and its nice tone will most likely appeal to you. It’s a basic piccolo that’s powerful enough for beginners to learn on. The model stands out in terms of looks thanks to its black body and silver headjoint.
Its build quality appears to be solid, and the keys are both responsive and firm, with the plastic body not being too fragile. The tone holes are precisely polished and well-cut, and the split E shape makes it easy to play.
Glory Key of C Piccolo with Pro Case
- Silver plated body and keys
- Key of C Piccolo, Closed Hole
- Includes: Durable case, joint grease, cleaning cloth & rod, and a pair of...
If you are a serious music fan seeking for an instrument to help you improve your musical abilities, the Glory piccolo is the perfect option. This fantastic product is well-known for its high sales. It boasts excellent characteristics and is a high-quality product with a perfect finish. This fantastic product is available for a very reasonable price.
GLORY piccolo is well worth the money paid on it. You will never be sorry for purchasing this exceptional item. You may also give this magnificent instrument as a gift to your loved ones, as it is one of the nicest and most wonderful gifts for a true music enthusiast.
GLORY piccolo also features an undercut beveled embouchure, high-quality twin bladder cushions, and an ergonomic finger brace, all of which enhance to its distinctiveness. This magnificent instrument weighs 15.2 ounces. Piccolos are approved by teachers for new learners and are very easy to operate for beginners.
What to Look for in a Beginner Piccolo Buying Guide
It’s time to think about how to make the best choice now that you are aware of some potential contenders for the best beginner piccolo. It’s not necessary for you to acquire an Armstrong just because I did. Here are a few things to think about while picking your first piccolo.
Affordability
You should consider the cost when looking for a piccolo. You cannot justifiably spend thousands of dollars as a novice. The cheapest solution should not, however, be chosen merely for financial reasons.
Look instead at credible models, such as those on this list. Set a budget of roughly $1,000 to $1,400 after that. You’ll get the opportunity to test out various models to see which one suits you the best as a result.
Durability
The finest piccolo for beginners is one that will last. Some beginner players don’t know how to take proper care of a piccolo, and you might need to play it outside. In either case, durability means your instrument will last longer. So you won’t need to buy a replacement as quickly. Overall, you can save money.
Materials
An entry-level piccolo may be made of metal, plastic, or both. Consider the desired sound and responsiveness as you examine the models. Metal is wonderful if you want something loud.If you need a lip plate, metal can be helpful as well. But in an orchestra or other such ensemble, plastic blends more easily. So try both and decide which one appeals to you more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will be playing Piccolo?
You’d agree that a tenth grader in a marching band would require a different type of piccolo than a college student auditioning for an orchestra. Professional piccolos, on the other hand, are quite different from student piccolos. A piccolo is a significant investment for professionals. As a result, quality is extremely important. However, for high school pupils, it may merely be a fleeting interest. As a result, quality isn’t a top focus.
How much do Piccolos cost?
Piccolos for beginners and advanced players usually cost less than $1000. Professional piccolos, on the other hand, can cost anywhere between $1000 and $10,000. We’re in the region of extremely coveted, artist-level piccolos when it starts to hit the $5000 to $6000 range. Now, there are a few variables to consider when determining how much you can afford to pay for a piccolo.