Piccolo Rental

What Is a Piccolo?

The piccolo is most often played by flutists who double on the instrument. These students will find many similarities in terms of fingerings, since the piccolo is essentially a small flute. Other elements of performance, especially intonation, will be trickier to master, as the piccolo requires a tighter, more focused embouchure and more controlled breath support. Despite these challenges, many students love the instrument for its invigorating sound — and for the often exciting parts written for it in concert and marching repertoire.

For students exploring the piccolo for the first time, renting can be an affordable, low-commitment way to gain experience and determine whether the instrument is the right fit before purchasing.

Is the Piccolo a Difficult Instrument to Play?

The piccolo is most often played by flutists who double on the instrument. These students will find many similarities in terms of fingerings, since the piccolo is essentially a small flute. Other elements of performance, especially intonation, will be trickier to master, as the piccolo requires a tighter, more focused embouchure and more controlled breath support. Despite these challenges, many students love the instrument for its invigorating sound — and for the often exciting parts written for it in concert and marching repertoire.

Renting a Piccolo vs. Buying

When considering a piccolo rental, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of renting vs. buying an instrument. If your child is already playing the piccolo regularly, purchasing may be the better route. For players who are new to the piccolo, renting provides a low-risk, cost-effective way to start with a quality student instrument and gain experience before committing to a purchase. Because the piccolo is typically a secondary instrument for flute players, renting can be especially practical for students who need a piccolo for select concert or marching-band pieces.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Piccolo?

Piccolo rental rates at Music & Arts are consistently affordable across the country, with pricing that varies by location and school. Special introductory offers make it even easier to get started. Considering that a top-quality student-level piccolo with accessories can cost well over $1,000, renting a piccolo from Music & Arts is a smart, budget-friendly alternative.

Accessories for Piccolo Rentals

Your piccolo rental includes the instrument and a protective case. The products below are essential for maintaining your child’s piccolo and creating a productive practice environment.

Additionally, your child’s music teacher at school will recommend key accessories that you’ll be able to purchase during the rental process, as well as a method book.

Here are some of the products your child will require:

• Cleaning & Maintenance Supplies: To keep your piccolo playing and sounding great, you’ll need a cleaning rod and swab to remove moisture from the bore after every playing session. You’ll also want a polishing cloth to wipe down the exterior and remove fingerprints and oils, protecting the finish and ensuring the instrument looks like new throughout the rental period.
• Instrument Stand: Because the piccolo is typically used for select pieces in a concert, an instrument stand is recommended to safely hold it during rehearsals and performances when not in use.
• Music Stand: For comfort, convenience and to encourage good posture, musicians need a well-built adjustable music stand to hold their sheet music and method book while practicing.
• Tuner and Metronome: Solid intonation can be especially challenging to achieve on the piccolo, so be sure to pick up a digital tuner that is precise and easy to use. A metronome is a small device that provides a steady beat to practice along to, helping your child improve their sense of rhythm and musical time. These tools are available individually or combined into a single product.

Learn more about the accessories your child needs in this Buyer’s Guide.

Next Steps After Your Piccolo Rental

Private lessons: As the leading provider of private music lessons in the United States, Music & Arts is the perfect place for your child to advance their piccolo skills. Visit our Music Lessons page or find a store near you.

Continue renting: If your child is enjoying the instrument, you can extend your piccolo rental period with Music & Arts.

Buy an instrument: Music & Arts rental fees act as credit toward the purchase of an instrument. If you decide to buy a rentable, student-level piccolo, your accrued rental payments can cover up to 100% of the purchase price. Buy before your rental term expires to receive a discount of up to 30%.

Piccolo Rental FAQs

How do I rent a piccolo from Music & Arts?

You can rent a piccolo online in just a few simple steps. Start by visiting our Instrument Rentals page and selecting your school. Next, choose the piccolo, select your trial period and add any method books or supplies. Finally, enter the student and renter information, choose your delivery method and complete the billing details.

What comes with my piccolo rental?

Your piccolo rental includes the instrument and a protective case. 

Will my rental piccolo be a new instrument?

Most piccolo rentals are in like-new condition, and each instrument is professionally inspected and adjusted before shipping. Starting on a well-maintained piccolo helps new players build confidence and develop proper technique.

How long will it take to receive my piccolo rental?

If you choose Ship to Home for a piccolo rental, orders are processed within 48 hours and typically arrive within one to five days, depending on your location. For Pick Up at School, delivery is arranged by your child’s music teacher. If you select Pick Up at Store, the store will contact you when your instrument is ready — usually within 48 hours.

Can I return or exchange my piccolo rental at any time?

Yes. After the initial introductory period, you can return your piccolo rental at any time with free and easy returns. If your needs change, you can also exchange your piccolo for another instrument. Any accrued rental equity transfers to your new rental, so you can continue building credit toward ownership.

What happens if my piccolo needs maintenance or repair?

The optional maintenance plan helps protect your piccolo rental by covering most repairs and routine maintenance. If your instrument needs service, bring it to your nearest Music & Arts location, where expert repair technicians will inspect and service it to keep it in excellent playing condition.