Welcome to the Trumpet Thoughts Podcast, where I dive deep into all things trumpet! Hosted by me, Donovan Bankhead, this show brings you expert tips, practical insights, and honest reviews to help you improve your playing, refine your technique, and stay inspired. Whether you're a come back player looking for guidance or a seasoned pro searching for fresh ideas, I cover everything from embouchure and air control to gear recommendations and performance strategies.
Tune in, level up your playing, and join the conversation as we explore the art of trumpet playing—one thought at a time! 🎶🔥
The “Hut” Breath Trick – A Quick Fix for Tension & Air Support
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
22 Feb 2025
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
19 Feb 2025
Why Your High Notes Feel Harder Than They Should (And How to Fix It!)
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
29 Jan 2025
How important is lip position in a trumpet embouchure?
Hey friends, in this episode of Trumpet Thoughts, I share some insights I've been working on about embouchure and lip placement. While air support is crucial, I’ve been discovering just how equally important lip positioning is when it comes to sound quality and control.
I break down the concept using a balloon analogy to illustrate how the lips should function more like the vibrating edge of a stretched balloon rather than being tightly rolled in or pressed against the teeth. Inspired by players like Maynard Ferguson, Lynn Nicholson, and insights from Bobby Shew, I explore how keeping the lips more unfurled and allowing the embouchure muscles to support from behind can create a fuller, more resonant sound.
I also touch on the importance of lip buzzing as a strength-building exercise and how tongue positioning plays a role in achieving better tone. If you've ever struggled with thin tone or lack of control, this might be a game-changer. Grab a balloon, experiment with this technique, and let me know what you think!
29 Jan 2025
Tongue Level, not just arch: The Key to High Notes on Trumpet and other Brass Instruments
In this episode of Trumpet Thoughts, I dive into my discovery about tongue positioning and how it affects trumpet playing. I've always understood that the tongue plays a role, but I never gave much thought to how its placement could impact pitch, endurance, and accuracy—until now. Through some recent experimentation, I’ve found that anchoring the tip of my tongue behind my bottom teeth while adjusting its level can make a huge difference in airflow and resonance.
I demonstrate this concept in real time, showing how changing my tongue level (rather than just arching it) helps me lock in pitches more easily and play with greater efficiency. I also reference some great resources, like Maximizing Practice by Mark Van Cleve and Pops McLaughlin’s work, which helped me connect the dots on this technique.
This episode is all about one of those "light bulb moments," and I’d love to hear from you—have you noticed the same thing in your own playing? Drop a comment and let me know what works for you!
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