The Wedge Breath & Reinhardt’s Shortened Air Column – Are They the Same Thing?

In this Trumpet Thoughts video, I dive into a connection I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone make before—the similarities between Bobby Shew’s Wedge Breath and Donald Reinhardt’s Shortened Air Column concept.Both approaches focus on using a more compact, efficient air column rather than the big, deep, diaphragmatic breaths that many players are taught. With the Wedge Breath, you start by relaxing the abdominal muscles, allowing for a small initial breath. Then, as you take in more air, you firm up the core, keeping the air column controlled and compact, rather than expanding all the way down into the lower lungs. This is very similar to Reinhardt’s idea that trumpet players don’t need the same deep air column as a tuba player—just an efficient, manageable amount of air placed where you need it.I also talk about how this approach has made a huge difference in my own playing, helping me avoid tension and keeping my throat relaxed. It’s worth experimenting with, especially if you’ve ever struggled with feeling like you have too much air trapped or your breath isn't translating efficiently into sound.Of course, I acknowledge that not every approach works for everyone—my friend Jim Manley, for example, swears by a much deeper breath method and sounds phenomenal. But for me, this concept is paying off in a big way.Give it a try and let me know what you think—does this approach help you play more efficiently?Wanna support the channel?Buy your music gear from my store!http://www.erniewilliamson.com