The piccolo adds color and interest to any piece.  It has a very distinct personality and there are many different techniques and fingerings used.  Being a good piccolo player adds great value to any flutist’s resume. Read the recent review of Santa Cruz Symphony performance of Verdi Requiem, I get a shoutout! ” Maestro Danny Stewart was inspiring, and brought compelling emotional depth to the Santa Cruz Symphony, Chorus and soloists. They rose to an extraordinary artistic level high above their usual excellent playing. Particular mention should given to Mary Hargrove (piccolo)…”

http://www.peninsulareviews.com/2017/05/07/santa-cruz-symphony-verdis-requiem/

Here is a snap of me warming up for the Verdi concert.

Listen to me playing piccolo at Opera San Jose:   Bizet’s Carmen