Summer is one of the best times for students to make real progress on piccolo. If you’re putting together summer assignments or looking for materials to keep your piccolo students engaged, these practice books are excellent teacher-approved resources to add to the list.

1. Practice Book for the Piccolo – Trevor Wye & Patricia Morris

This is one of the most recommended piccolo method books for a reason. It walks students through the unique challenges of piccolo playing, including tone development, intonation tendencies, articulation clarity, and control in the high register.

Best for: Flutists transitioning into dedicated piccolo study or students needing a structured summer practice routine.

2. Orchestral Techniques for Flute and Piccolo – Walfrid Kujala

A classic resource that introduces students to the demands of orchestral piccolo playing while offering practical advice on sound, style, and preparation. Summer is the perfect time for students to start exploring orchestral playing in a lower-pressure environment.

Best for: Advanced high school and college students interested in youth orchestra, all-state, or audition preparation.

3. Orchestral Excerpts for Piccolo – Jack Wellbaum

This collection helps students become familiar with standard piccolo excerpts while strengthening rhythm, intonation, and consistency. It’s also a great way to encourage listening and score study during the summer months.

Best for: Students preparing for orchestra auditions or serious ensemble playing.

4. The Complete Piccolo – Jan Gippo

A comprehensive approach to piccolo fundamentals, this book covers tone, articulation, finger technique, endurance, and practice strategies in a student-friendly format. It’s an especially useful resource for students practicing more independently over the summer.

Best for: Students who need guidance building healthy piccolo practice habits and daily routines.

Whether your students are picking up piccolo for the first time or preparing advanced orchestral repertoire, having the right materials can make summer practice more focused, productive, and enjoyable.