circular breathing

British  

noun

1. a technique for sustaining a phrase on a wind instrument, using the cheeks to force air out of the mouth while breathing in through the nose

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Example Sentences

Legendary British saxophonist Evan Parker sits in with the group, using his signature circular breathing techniques to help elevate the groove to an even more ecstatic place.

From Washington Post • Dec. 7, 2021

For a good 20 minutes Mr. Evans sustained a drone underneath a flutter of fast notes using circular breathing, sucking in air through his nose without interrupting the airflow through his trumpet.

From New York Times • Nov. 6, 2015

Dickson's playing has been helped by use of "circular breathing".

From Reuters • Aug. 19, 2014

The Qi Gong circular breathing practice goes great with When the Levee Breaks.

From Slate • Jun. 9, 2014

He later demonstrated the circular breathing technique that makes it possible, humorously describing himself as a human bagpipe.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 27, 2012