Circular breathing is a technique that helps woodwind instrumentalists and glassblowers sustain even air pressure. By puffing the cheeks when the air from the lungs begins to diminish, they can draw on this oxygen reserve to continue blowing at the same time as they inhale.
Even with regular practice, this challenging process can take months to perfect. The hardest part is changing the flow of breath from the lungs to the cheeks and back to the lungs.
Background
Australian aborigines sometimes use circular breathing for playing the didgeridoo. Other instruments that commonly employ this technique include the South Indian nagaswaram, the Chinese bawu, the Egyptian arghul and the Sardinian launeddas.
Uses
Circular breathing is helpful for playing the oboe, trumpet, French horn, bassoon, saxophone, clarinet, and flute. Although Niccolo Paganini originally composed "Moto Perpetua" for the violin, Mexican trumpeter Rafael Mendez adapted it for his instrument and seemingly held a note for four minutes while circular breathing.
Saxophonist Kenny G is known for using this technique.
Technique
One way to learn circular breathing is to practice inhaling and exhaling with your cheeks puffed, and then with slightly open lips. The next step is to use a straw in a glass of water, which will continuously bubble as you learn the correct method.
Considerations
Circular breathing is not designed to help meditation or regular physical exercise.
Mastering circular breathing takes both practice and patience. If breathing becomes uncomfortable, stop practicing immediately.
Fun Facts
"Circular Breathing: The Cultural Politics of Jazz in Britain" is a book written by George McKay about the jazz scene in Great Britain.
"Circular Breathing" is also the name of an EP released in 2006 by Australian singer Kate Miller-Heidke.
