While this may make you look like a chipmunk, the more useful analogy is to think of yourself as a human bagpipe, and your cheeks as the bellows. [3] X Research source
Experts differ somewhat on this step. Some recommend keeping your cheeks puffed out the entire time, refilling them frequently with little bits of air from the lungs. [7] X Research source Others, however, suggest that it might be more natural to let your cheeks return to a normal breathing position as you let the air out of your mouth. [8] X Research source Experiment with both to determine which is more comfortable—and effective—for you and your instrument.
Fill your mouth with as much water as you can. Breathing in and out through your nose, spit the water into the sink in a thin, continuous stream.
Make a strong “HA” sound when switching from the air in your cheeks to the air in your lungs.
If you hear any noticeable break in the sound, you are probably waiting until one source of air is fully depleted before switching to the other one. Switch from your mouth to your lungs and vice versa the second before the one you are using runs out of air. This exercise is also helpful because it will give you a sense of how firmly you need to hold your lips for the technique to be successful.
Some registers will make this easier than others. You may find it easier to start with exercises that hit the higher part of your instrument’s range. [18] X Research source
