What kind of information should I know about my piccolo?

FIrst, take it to a qualified technician for expert evaluation. The technician can document any unseen problems and/or damage that may affect your decision to keep it. This is a small price to pay to ensure a good instrument. The seller should give you about a week to have this done before the sale is final.

Second, after you have decided to keep it, go to the Gemeinhardt web site and update the registration to your name. This will be especially helpful if your piccolo is stolen since you can report it to them. Anyone looking to buy it will, of course, check the serial number with them first and hopefully report a seller who is not you to the authorities for prosecution. Also, ask your parents to check that their homeowner's or renter's policy will cover loss or theft and purchase appropriate coverage if needed.

Third, be aware that your silver plate piccolo is highly temperature sensitive and will be more shrill that either the composite or wood models. The wood has the warmest sound and the composite is least affected by temperature and humidity.

Be happy. Play well. Best wishes.