A piccolo is a musical instrument that belongs to the woodwind family. It is a half-size flute, and it is the smallest instrument in the flute section, roughly half the length of an ordinary concert flute. The piccolo has similar fingerings as the standard transverse flute, but the sound it produces is an octave higher than the flute. It is a transposing instrument, which means that when you read a C on the stave, the note that is actually heard is an octave higher. Piccolos are often orchestrated to double the violins or the flutes, adding sparkle and brilliance to the overall sound. They are a standard member in orchestras, marching bands, and wind ensembles. Although once made of wood, glass, or ivory, piccolos today are made from plastic, resin, brass, nickel silver, silver, and a variety of hardwoods, most commonly grenadilla. Finely made piccolos are often available with a variety of options similar to the flute, such as the split-E mechanism.
In addition to the musical instrument, "piccolo" can also refer to a small milk beverage thats typically served in a 3-4 oz/85-114 ml glass, known as the piccolo latte. The piccolo latte is made by combining a shot of espresso with steamed milk and a layer of silky foam on top.
