In a standard symphony orchestra, the piccolo is the smallest and highest-pitched woodwind instrument.
The piccolo is a small transverse flute, usually made of wood, plastic, or metal. Its name comes from the Italian piccolo flauto, meaning “small flute.” Although it is about half the length of a concert flute, it sounds one octave higher than written, giving orchestral passages a bright, penetrating quality.
Piccolos became established in orchestras during the 19th century. Composers often use them to add brilliance to loud climaxes, military-style music, and high melodic lines. Beethoven, Berlioz, and Tchaikovsky used the instrument prominently in orchestral works.
The piccolo is sometimes confused with the ordinary flute because both are played sideways and use keys. The main difference is range: the piccolo’s written notes sound an octave above the corresponding notes on the concert flute. A piccolo is also common in marching and concert bands, where its clear tone can carry over large ensembles.