In this Trumpet Thoughts video, I share a simple yet effective breathing trick to help when your air support feels off, restricted, or just plain stuck. If you've ever felt like you're fighting against your own airflow—like your throat is closing up or your air isn’t releasing properly—this technique can make a big difference.I first picked this up from Nashville trumpet player Steve Patrick, and it involves taking a quick "huh" breath before playing. This breath helps reset your air support, prevents tension from creeping in, and allows you to release air rather than force it out. It’s especially useful in moments of discomfort, like when switching to a different horn or feeling self-conscious about tone and projection.I explain how this method aligns with proper air compression, using an analogy of a balloon: instead of just pressurizing air inside, you want to actively release it with controlled support from your abdomen. I also share a personal experience of struggling with tension and inefficient breathing during a rehearsal, and how this trick helped me get back on track.This is one of those small but powerful hacks that can help players break bad habits and improve their airflow immediately. If you’ve ever felt like your air was fighting against you, give it a try!Wanna support the channel?Buy your music gear from my store!http://www.erniewilliamson.com

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

In this Trumpet Thoughts video, I dive into the topic of aperture shape and position—a crucial element for a full, effortless trumpet sound. I start by appreciating a snowy Missouri day, a perfect backdrop for practicing and reflecting on playing mechanics.I break down the common misconception that playing higher means clamping down harder. Instead, I explain that a steady, well-formed aperture should remain consistent across registers, with firmness coming in response to air volume, not as a prerequisite for high notes.I demonstrate this concept with a simple three-octave example, showing how a steady aperture prevents the sound from getting pinched or cutting out. I also recall watching great players like Scott Englebright, who make the upper register look easy—because it is when done correctly.The takeaway? Think about how you’re playing. Are you holding your aperture in place and letting the sound flow? Or are you clamping down and muscling your way through? Grab a cup of coffee, reflect on it, and start playing smarter, not harder. 🎺Wanna support the channel?Buy your music gear from my store!http://www.erniewilliamson.com