Piccolo Finger Technique

Because of the piccolo's smaller size, finger technique needs to be slightly modified. Some tricky  third octave passages on the flute can get a great boost by using harmonics, but because of the greater resistance on piccolo, often this option is not quite as available to us, although I am able to use this as an option many times.  I try to play a little more on the finger tips, curving the fingers slightly more on piccolo since the keys are smaller and there are no open holes to worry about covering. Think about incorporating trill fingerings for extremely fast passages. Keep fingers even closer to the keys than the flute. Always, start slow and small: slower tempo and small segments of the passage (a beat is enough at the beginning). Link together as you teach the passage to your fingers, and gently ramp up the tempo. I enjoy playing the passage from right to left for a 'new' way of looking at it(this also heightens the concentration). Keep earplugs handy as you do this: Extended piccolo practice is tough on the ears.