Learn the technique of circular breathing. Expert guide with step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips for continous breathing.
Circular breathing is essential in playing instruments like the didgeridoo, zurna, limbe, launeddas, arghul, and several others from Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. In some regions, mastering this technique is a prerequisite for playing specific instruments, like the saluang bamboo flute from West Sumatra, Indonesia. Moreover, it has even made its way into the repertoire of jazz and classical wind and brass players.
While few classical compositions necessitated circular breathing before the 20th century, its adoption has opened doors for the transposition of pieces originally composed for string instruments. Notable examples include Rafael Méndez's transcription of Paganini's "Moto Perpetuo" for trumpet.
Circular breathing has led to awe-inspiring feats in musical endurance. Kenny G set a Guinness World Record in 1997 by sustaining a note for 45 minutes and 47 seconds. This record was surpassed by Vann Burchfield in 2000, who held a note for an impressive 47 minutes and 6 seconds. Mark Atkins, in his Didgeridoo Concerto (1994), played continuously for over 50 minutes. Femi Kuti broke Atkins' record in 2017, playing for a remarkable 51 minutes and 38 seconds.
While the category for the 'longest sustained note on a wind or brass instrument' still exists, the circular breathing technique is no longer permitted in the Guinness World Record guidelines.
Congratulations! If you reached this step, you have a good understanding how circular breathing works. Here comes the fun part!
All you need is a half-full glass of water (doesn’t work with half-empty glass).
Practice by blowing bubbles: Blow bubbles through the straw with the technique you learned. This will provide a visual cue for airflow. You can squeeze the straw with your fingers to have more resistance.
You did it!
Relaxation is key
Consistency is crucial
Focus on Timing
Consistent Pressure
Controlled Inhalation:
Air leakage
Not enough air
There is a little break in the sound while switching from cheeks back to the lung
Intonation problems
Thanks for your feedback
Discover the best clarinet mouthpieces! Check out our reviews and recommendations for Bb and Bass clarinet.
Dive into our comprehensive ClariMate review and explore how this groundbreaking digital mute for clarinets is transforming the world of music. Learn about its innovative features and real-world performance in this honest review.
Discover the role of clarinet ligatures in achieving optimal sound and control. Explore various ligature types, materials, and techniques to enhance your clarinet playing experience.
Discover the Vandoren VK1 clarinet reed, a breakthrough in synthetic reed technology. Experience stability, durability, and consistent performance.
The clarinet is a single-reed woodwind instrument that has a distinctive timbre and a wide range of pitches. It is used in various styles of music, such as classical, jazz, klezmer, and marching bands.