Imagine getting complimented on your piccolo sound, not berated for it. If you want to sound much better, you should compare the Lyric vs. Yamaha piccolos.
These brands share some qualities, but one might be much better for you than the other. Check out all of the features of these piccolos to decide on one.
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What Is the Lyric Piccolo?
The Lyric piccolo is a relative new model, and it’s perfect for intermediate players. It’s a grenadilla instrument with silver-plated keys, a split E mechanism, and a wave headjoint.
I’ve had the chance to try a couple of them over the years, and they sound really good. Compared to piccolos with the same specs, this model is very affordable, so it’s super nice for students.
But since it uses wood, I wouldn’t recommend it for outdoor gigs. The wood could crack, so you should save the Lyric for indoor performances and rehearsals.
What Are Yamaha Piccolos?
Yamaha piccolos include four different models at various price points and with different materials and specs. As you compare Lyric vs. Yamaha piccolos, take a look at each of the available models.
Yamaha YPC-32
The Yamaha YPC-32 is the student model with a plastic body and silver-plated keys. It also features a silver-plated headjoint, so the instrument can be a bit easier for beginners.
There’s also a split E mechanism, which can help you get the third octave E to come out more easily. The plastic and metal materials make it perfect for use in marching band or other outdoor settings.
Yamaha YPC-62
If you’re looking for an intermediate piccolo, the Yamaha YPC-62 is a great choice. It’s the most similar to the Lyric piccolo with a wood body and a silver-plated mechanism.
This piccolo is quite a bit more expensive than the Lyric though, and you can choose between a wave or traditional headjoint. That way, you can get the best response.
Yamaha YPC-81
The Yamaha YPC-81 is Yamaha’s take on a professional wooden piccolo. It has a grenadilla headjoint and body, and the keys are silver plated.
There’s also a split E mechanism, and you have your choice of headjoint cut. I’d recommend this model for people who need a good piccolo but can’t quite afford some other professional models.
Yamaha YPC-82
Perhaps you want a professional piccolo with a lip plate; well, the Yamaha YPC-82 is for you. It’s almost identical to the YPC-81 except the headjoint is solid silver.
The wood body helps keep the tone from being too shrill, so you can get a good sound. But the metal headjoint can also help you project your sound over a large ensemble.
Lyric vs. Yamaha YPC-32
The Lyric and Yamaha YPC-32 are the most similar when it comes to the price. However, the Lyric is made of wood, and the Yamaha is made of plastic and nickel with a layer of silver plating.
Both models are good for casual players, and they’re nice if you’re on a budget. If you want one piccolo for everything, though, I’d go with the Yamaha since you can play it inside and outside.
Lyric vs. Yamaha YPC-62
If you’re looking for two models with the same specs, the Yamaha YPC-62 and Lyric are the most similar. They’re grenadilla wood, and they use silver-plated keys.
However, the Lyric only comes with a wave headjoint cut. Meanwhile, you can choose between a traditional and wave headjoint with the Yamaha.
Lyric vs. Yamaha YPC-81
Similarly, the Lyric and the Yamaha YPC-81 share many of the same materials. If you’re at the intermediate level, the Lyric piccolo will be a better fit.
But if you’re ready to upgrade to a pro model, the Yamaha YPC-81 will suit you more. Of course, the Yamaha is also significantly more expensive, but it can be well worth it.
Lyric vs. Yamaha YPC-82
The only thing the Lyric and the YPC-82 have in common is a wood body. As I mentioned, the Lyric features a wood headjoint, so you can get a warm sound that’s easy to blend with others.
If you go with this Yamaha piccolo, you’ll get a solid silver headjoint. That can be nice if you do a lot of solo stuff or if you find it hard to play a piccolo without a lip plate.
What Is the Best Piccolo Material?
The best piccolo material depends on you and your needs. If you tend to play outside, some combination of metal and plastic will be the best option.
On the other hand, if you tend to play inside and play in an orchestra, wood is the way to go. If you have the money, you can buy multiple piccolos so that you can use the right model for each gig or rehearsal you have.
What Is a Good Piccolo for Marching Band?
When it comes to Lyric vs. Yamaha piccolos, the best one for marching band is the YPC-32. It’s the only one that doesn’t have any wood that could get damaged in extreme temperatures.
Other plastic and metal models from brands like Pearl and Jupiter work well too. Learn about some other good marching band piccolos to help choose one.
Do You Need Cork Grease for a Piccolo?
You need cork grease for any piccolo that has a cork on the body tenon. When it comes to Lyric and Yamaha, you’ll need cork grease for all of the models.
However, not all piccolos from all brand require it. Make sure there’s a cork on the body of whatever piccolo you have before you buy a tube. Using grease on a metal tenon can do more harm than good.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the best instrument, don’t forget to compare Lyric vs. Yamaha piccolos. Both brands are popular at the intermediate level, but Yamaha has more models available.
Consider your budget and decide what features and specs you need. That way, you can narrow your choices and find a piccolo you’ll love.
To make the most of your new Lyric or Yamaha, use a fingering chart to find the best alternate fingerings.