The piccolo is the highest-pitched of all instruments used in the modern orchestra. It is a derivation of the flute, and hence a woodwind instrument, though much smaller, playing an octave higher than the larger flute. It contains the same number of keys as the flute.
Memorable instances where a piccolo has featured in a prominent role include Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker, Prokofiev's Lieutenant Kijé and Ravel's Ma Mere l'Oye.