Learning to play piccolo?

Question

i've been playing the trumpet for about 7 years now, but haven't played it for 2. I still know how to read music and play everything, so I'm wondering about how long it would take to be able to play the piccolo decently for a pep band ensemble? i have about 3 1/2 months to learn it, and i know how to play the basic notes on a flute, but only play it here and there. i just need to be able to get by on a student model. thanks

Answer 1

First, I would recommend taking some lessons, either with a professional flute teacher or even with someone in your band that plays piccolo (if anyone does).  

If you need to teach yourself, I would go buy a beginner flute book and work from it to teach yourself the piccolo.  I don't know how hard your music will be in pep band, but to have a good piccolo range you need to be able to play up to high G above the staff.  But you need to develop a good embouchure and tone before working for the high notes, so that's why the beginner book will help.  Good luck!

Answer 2

I don't think you will be able to learn it that fast, and if you do, the tone will more than likely be horrible (especially if you don't have a lot of flute experience. I played flute for 10 years and picking up piccolo wasn't easy because there is a smaller hole for wind and you have to work harder to get higher notes. Remember, at the pitch of a piccolo, everyone will be able to hear. If you make a mistake it WILL be known. The keys are the same though so keying the notes isn't an issue.

Answer 3

If you practice enough then you should be able to do it but lessons help A LOT. I play the flute and last summer I learned how to play the trumpet

Answer 4

Hi Tara.  Have you ever heard, "Where there's a will, there's a way" ?   Seems as you have the will, so I think there will be no stopping you from learning... but it will not happen over night.   I have taught flute for a few years now...  so perhaps my instruction will get you on your way.   You really need that piccolo... like NOW...  So,  don't bother about putting the instrument together... you will just struggle.  I suggest that you just take the headjoint and work on that alone.. without the rest of the horn.   It really takes more air / or air support to get out the notes on a piccolo... but the air stream has to be super tiny.  Put the headjoint up to your lips... and bring it just a tiny bit higher than you would the flute.  Blow across the hole with a lot of air support.  Because you are blowing so hard,  you will want to tighten your lips up.. but as much as you can...  relax them.   Keep practicing that until you get a sound.  I would not be one bit surprised if you don't get a head rush.  That is natural.  About 4 times a day for 5 - 10 minutes,  practice this procedure with only the headjoint.. and remember.. if you cannot get a nice sound out of the HJ first,  no need in putting the piccolo together.   It should happen for you in about a week if you practice every day.   Then, the book I use for beginners is the Rubank Elementary Method for Flute or Piccolo.   This is an excellent book to train you with the fingerings (has a big fingering chart in the front) as the numbered lessons will be easy for you.. since you already are experienced in music.   Do 1 or 2 lessons a week faithfully for results.   If you have 3 1/2 months, you have time to get ready...  Just stay with that book... I believe there are 39 lessons... many of which you can do 2 a week.  Wishing you best of luck and lots of time to practice.  :))

PS:   Lessons would be good and get you closer to where you want to be in 1/2 of the time it will take to do it on your own