Always the Soloist!

Piccolo Tips:
Just like in the higher octave of the flute, piccolo requires that you blow the air through your instrument faster. As you play higher and higher pitches, less air is pushed through the hole of the headjoint, and instead travels across the opening to produce the sound. Practice with just the headjoint of the piccolo. Try to achieve a warm sound - Now try to blow the pitch you hear up an octave without becoming tight in the throat or pushing the headjoint against your face.
1. Intonation.Practicing with a tuner is very important, but also use and trust your ears. Always know your pitch tendencies on problem notes, and more importantly how to make it in tune. Don't be afraid to use special fingerings for intonation purposes. They will only make your job easier.
2. Embouchure.The piccolo is smaller than the flute, so the aperture is as well - but it should not be tighter. Tightening up will lead to a pinched tone, which is a direct root of most intonation problems.
3. Air Stream Control.The piccolo needs a faster air stream than the flute. This does not mean that you have to blow harder or more forcefully. Always have a good reserve and use it wisely, remembering that the piccolo carries well on its own without your extra help. A full and relaxed tone will always project better than a forced one.
4. Air Direction.Air direction plays a crucial role in piccolo playing. Be aware that small changes in air direction can make a huge difference. Keep in mind that when you are playing softly, it helps to aim the air higher to keep the pitch up. And when you are at full volume, you may have to blow more downward and into the piccolo to keep from being too sharp. Also pay attention to large intervals. Proper air placement is crucial for correct intonation.
5. Vibrato.Because the piccolo is smaller, a big flute vibrato is too intrusive. Work toward a vibrato that is not too wide, but rather in the tone. You must vibrate and make it beautiful; however it shouldn't be overly noticeable or obstructive.
6. Think of the benefits.You always get to play solo, your lips will have more flexibility (which will help your flute playing) and your ears will be more fine tuned and ready to detect intonation issues. Don't forget - increased employment opportunities!!Name that tune.Practice a familiar flute piece on piccolo, for example, the slow movement of a Bach Sonata, or the opening of the Fauré Fantasie. Playing something that you are familiar with and know well will definitely help. You are going to want to make it beautiful and you will know when it's not. Pretend like you are playing it on the flute, keeping all of these piccoloisms in mind.
"You cannot prepare enough for anything".

Coming Soon: Performing Mozart!