circular breathing
A wind instrument technique allowing continuous sound production by inhaling through the nose while expelling air from the cheeks
In Depth
Circular breathing stores air in the inflated cheeks and pushes it out through the instrument while the player simultaneously inhales through the nose, replenishing the lungs without interrupting the sound. The technique originated in didgeridoo playing and was adopted by jazz and classical wind players. Kenny G set a world record by sustaining a single note for over 45 minutes using circular breathing. The technique has become increasingly expected of professional oboists, clarinetists, and brass players.
The Australian didgeridoo is played entirely with circular breathing — Aboriginal performers can sustain continuous sound for the duration of an entire ceremony.