Traditional Black Plastic Fife - Beginner and Corps Fife

Our Bb plastic fife is a high quality, traditional B♭ fife for beginning players and programs looking for an affordable, durable instrument. Crafted in our Vermont workshop using FDA-approved plastic, the Cooperman Black Plastic Fife offers the sound and playability of a true fife & drum instrument at an affordable price, making this instrument an accessible entry point into the tradition of fife & drum music.

The fife was an essential instrument of 18th-century military life, used to signal commands in battle and mark the rhythms of daily camp routine. Its clear, penetrating voice carried through the American Revolution and remained central through the Civil War. As fifers returned home, the instrument became part of the fabric of American folk music, continuing a living tradition still heard today.

• Features:
  Made from FDA-approved black plastic for durability and consistency
  Fitted with short brass ferrules
  Tuned in the traditional key of folk Bb (equivalent to flute Ab) 
  Clear, reliable tone ideal for learning and corps playing
• Each fife is packaged with:
  A music and instruction sheet for beginners including history information connecting the instrument to its early American roots.

Product Details

Traditional key of Bb (concert Ab)
Standard fingering for easy learning
FDA-approved black plastic construction
Brass ferrules for durability and authentic appearance
Packaged in a poly bag with music, history, and instruction sheet

Safety & Age Recommendation

This is a musical instrument, not a toy. Recommended for ages 8+ and adults.