What kind of instrument is a piccolo?

Answer by  Mable (3008)

Unless another word follows "piccolo" this name refers to a small flute. Along with the flutes it is included amongst the (wood)wind instruments. There are "piccolo" (small) versions of other instruments, notably the trumpet -- so the "piccolo trumpet" is a brass instrument.

Answer by  DrHarris (508)

A piccolo is a wind instrument, and a part of the flute family. Like a flute, it makes sound from air bouncing repeatedly in the shaft of the instrument. It is pitched much higher than a flute, and thus is a popular choice for marching bands and other situations where a louder, more shrill sound is appreciated.