Why Have One When You Can Have Two?

Every so often, a client comes to us to find not one, but two instruments. Often, it’s a step-up flute and piccolo, usually for a student who is ready to upgrade from their beginner flute while also beginning to play the piccolo (we see you, marching band kids!)

We love helping flutists through this exciting moment! Here are some of our go-to recommendations for Matching Sets - excellent step-up flutes paired with a piccolo.

Pearl 665 Flute and Pearl 105 Piccolo

The Pearl Quantz Series Model 665 is one of our favorite step-up flutes. One feature that truly sets it apart is the ability to choose from different headjoint cuts—a level of customization that's rarely available at this price point. This allows players to select a headjoint that best matches their embouchure, response preferences, and musical goals. We also appreciate that the split-E mechanism comes standard, making high E more reliable and easier to play.

Paired with the Pearl PFP-105E Piccolo, this makes an excellent flute and piccolo combination for advancing students. The PFP-105E features a durable Grenaditte body and headjoint with a silver-plated mechanism, making it a practical choice for marching band, outdoor performances, and first-time piccolo players. Known for its easy response, comfortable upper register, and warm, rich tone, it's a piccolo that helps players build confidence while producing a beautiful sound with less effort.

Yamaha Flute Model 362 Flute and Yamaha 32 Piccolo

The Yamaha Model 362 Flute is an excellent choice for advancing flutists ready for the next step in their musical journey. Featuring a sterling silver headjoint, it offers a warm, resonant sound with greater depth and flexibility than a student model. Its reliable mechanism, excellent intonation, and comfortable response have made it a longtime favorite among students, teachers, and performers alike. We recommend opting for the B-footjoint option (362H), and adding the gold-plated lip plate for extra shine.

Paired with the Yamaha YPC-32 Piccolo, this combination provides everything a developing musician needs for both concert band and ensemble playing. The YPC-32 is one of our most frequently recommended piccolos thanks to its dependable performance, easy response, and consistent quality. Its silver-plated headjoint creates a familiar playing experience for flutists making the transition to piccolo, while the durable ABS resin body stands up beautifully to marching band, outdoor performances, and everyday use. With a clear, focused sound and forgiving response, it's a piccolo that helps players sound their best from the very first notes.

Guo New Voice Flute and Guo New Voice Piccolo

The Guo New Voice Flute and Guo New Voice Piccolo make a fun, colorful, and incredibly practical pairing for players looking for something a little different from traditional metal and wood instruments.

The Guo New Voice C Flute is one of the lightest-weight flutes available today, making it especially appealing for younger players, those with hand or shoulder fatigue, and musicians seeking a more comfortable playing experience. Despite its lightweight construction, the New Voice produces a responsive sound with surprising color. Available in a variety of vibrant colors, it's a flute that stands out visually while delivering dependable performance.

Paired with the Guo New Voice Piccolo, this duo offers exceptional versatility for band, outdoor performances, and everyday practice. Like the flute, the New Voice Piccolo is lightweight, weather-resistant, and easy to maintain, making it an excellent choice for marching band, pep band, and players who want a durable instrument they can take anywhere with confidence. Its responsive design helps players achieve a clear, focused sound with less effort, while its affordable price point makes it an attractive option for students and doublers alike.

Amadeus by Haynes 680 Step-Up Flute  and Haynes Amadeus AP-46 Composite Piccolo 

The Amadeus by William S. Haynes Model 680 is an outstanding choice for advancing flutists seeking professional-level performance at an accessible price point. Featuring a sterling silver headjoint, the 680 offers a vibrant, expressive tone with excellent projection and flexibility. Designed and crafted with the expertise of the Haynes team, it combines refined craftsmanship, reliable mechanics, and comfortable playability, making it a flute that can support years of musical growth.

Paired with the Amadeus AP46 Piccolo, this combination provides a versatile and dependable setup for concert band, orchestra, and outdoor performances. The AP46 features a durable composite body that resists changes in temperature and humidity, making it an excellent choice for marching band and musicians who want a low-maintenance instrument without sacrificing performance. Its silver-plated mechanism and split-E facilitate a stable response and secure upper register, while the choice of a Traditional or Wave headjoint allows players to select the feel and response that best suits their playing style.