The trumpet is one of the oldest musical instruments known to mankind. Developed initially in 1500 BCE, the trumpet has been around through the rise and falls of many of the world’s greatest civilizations and has evolved along with time to become one of the most recognizable musical instruments. Trumpets have changed little from their original design, but many variations on the original trumpet have emerged to perform different musical notes for use in various musical genres. The piccolo trumpet has set itself apart in the trumpet family as one of the most unique models available.
Trumpets have a long and rich history, having been discovered as far back as the era of King Tut in Egypt, the Vikings of Scandinavia, and even ancient China. Originally made of varying materials, bronze, silver, and even metal; modern trumpets are most often made of brass. The trumpet was not originally used in a musical manner which modern society is accustomed to hearing it. Rather, it was used primarily by military forces to coordinate maneuvers and attacks among allied units. Trumpeters in an army were among the most important individuals because of the role they and their trumpet played in the battle.
Other uses for the trumpet over time included use in religious ceremonies. Though it is now possible for almost anyone to pick up a trumpet and play it, it was once a highly guarded skill that few were allowed to study. During the Renaissance era the trumpet was finally used in a sense that most modern individuals would expect. As the classical and romantic genres, as we now know them, began to emerge in the centuries after the Renaissance, the trumpet became a popular brass section instrument for its ability to hit high notes.
The piccolo trumpet is unique amongst its fellow trumpets because it can reach higher notes than most other variations, including the standard B flat trumpet. In fact, the piccolo trumpet is pitched exactly one octave above the B flat model trumpet. The design of the piccolo trumpet is another factor that sets it apart from other trumpets. Piccolo models are shorter than traditional trumpets, consisting of roughly one-half the amount of tubing found in other trumpets. Another rare design feature found on the piccolo trumpet is a four valve system instead of the standard three. This allows trumpeters to lower the pitch of their music by a fourth.
Other differences between a traditional trumpet and a piccolo trumpet include different techniques for playing the instrument. The piccolo trumpet is best used with different air pressure, tonguing, and a shallower mouthpiece in order to bring out the unique tones of the piccolo.
While the piccolo trumpet is a popular choice in several musical genres, those considering purchasing one should take particular joy in Baroque music. This particular style of music was born and developed between 1600 and 1750 and was followed by the Classical age of music. Opera music, for instance, arose out of the Baroque period. The piccolo trumpet became popular for fans of this genre due to its ability to perform the difficult musical notations and playing techniques that were common during this era.
The piccolo trumpet is a truly unique instrument in a class of easy to learn instruments. Although the four valve design of most piccolo’s is tricky to learn, the reward comes in being able to play more difficult musical pieces.