The Mechanical Development of the Piccolo

Abstract

The purpose of this document is to explore the mechanical development of the piccolo in relation to the flute. Although there have been several studies conducted about the mechanical development of the flute, the piccolo has never received this special attention and deserves to have its story told. The piccolo has gained prominence as an integral part of the orchestra and has also become a popular solo instrument. Mechanically, the piccolo has developed slowly in relation to the flute from a one-key instrument to the modern Boehm system in use today.

The first step in this project began with an investigation of the writings that already exist on this subject, such as dictionaries, encyclopedias, books, and dissertations. Next, interviews were conducted with museum curators, instrument makers, and performers, and historical instrument collections throughout the world were examined. After careful review of these materials, a complete mechanical development of the piccolo has been developed.

Each chapter of this document examines the mechanical improvements in terms of the tube and materials, the headjoint, and the mechanism during each stylistic period. With careful examination of the physical properties of each instrument, the reasons for these changes will become clear. The following chapters will include pertinent information regarding the similarities and differences between the piccolo and the flute, the role and importance of families of flutemakers, as well as shed light on reasons why composers became interested in scoring for these small flutes.