Why is the Silky "P5-4" spoken of as the standard for piccolo trumpets?
The answer becomes clear the moment you play it.
[Overview]
Silky Piccolo Trumpet P5-4 model. 4-inch (101.6mm) copper bell. 450' inch (11.42mm) M bore. Silver-plated finish. Includes B♭ and A dual-purpose cornet shank mouthpipe (*). Instrument weight: 915 grams. Made in 1999.Accessories: Genuine single hard case New Price: ¥946,000
(*) While Silky Piccolo Trumpets typically used a shared B♭ and A cornet shank mouthpipe, they now produce dedicated A pipes. P5-4 models from 2018 onward come standard with an A pipe (trumpet shank).The stock item is only the B♭ pipe (compatible with A).
[ Condition]
Some tarnishing on the plating and fine pinholes (small raised spots) are visible on the side of the 4th valve casing, the 4th slide tube, and part of the 3rd slide tube. (Please refer to the detailed images. There are no areas where the plating is completely peeled off.) Otherwise, it is in good condition with no noticeable scratches, dents, or repair history. The interior has been cleaned, soft parts replaced, and it has undergone general maintenance and adjustment.
[Features]
Since its debut in 1971, the Silky P5-4 has remained the "standard" for piccolo trumpets for over half a century. It is no exaggeration to say that many long-bell piccolo trumpets currently available were born by taking the P5-4 as their model in terms of structure, balance, and sound design.
Crucially, the fact remains: "While copies abound, no model has yet surpassed the original." Its brilliant tone unique to the piccolo trumpet, its exceptional projection. Its responsive yet resilient capacity—light and responsive, yet capable of sustaining sound without breaking even when blown hard. Plus, its deep, expressive resonance. In all these aspects, it leaves competitors far behind.
Piccolo trumpets are often used as "secondary instruments," and it's true that many players seek to keep costs lower than for their main B♭ or C trumpets. A retail price in the 800,000 yen range is certainly not inexpensive. However, once you experience the potential of this P5-4, you'll naturally understand why it commands this price.
This time, we've acquired a used P5-4 in excellent condition, previously owned by just one owner. Given it's a popular model that moves quickly whenever it hits the market, it's highly likely to be snapped up while you're still deciding.
If you're thinking, "I won't be replacing my Piccolo multiple times, so why not aim straight for the 'goal' from the start?", then I highly recommend it without hesitation.
