50+ Years of Better Breathing for Musicians and Beyond
Frequently Asked Questions
Helping musicians, educators, and athletes strengthen their breath for over 50 years.
Invented in 1971 by world-renowned bassoonist Harold Hanson, The Breath Builder® turns breath training into a fun, effective, and science-backed daily habit. Whether you’re a band student, professional musician, singer, athlete, or someone looking to improve respiratory health - you’re in the right place.
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The Breath Builder® is a simple, handheld device designed to improve lung strength, breath control, and air support.
Originally created for musicians, it helps users master controlled, consistent airflow - a key component for powerful performances, athletic endurance, and healthy breathing habits.
Fun fact: The device’s design was inspired by a child’s toy, turning a once-boring exercise into a game-like experience that delivers real results.
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At its core, the Breath Builder® uses airflow resistance and feedback to train your lungs. By blowing or inhaling steadily through the tube to keep the lightweight ball suspended, you strengthen your diaphragm and increase lung capacity.
Because it allows continuous airflow (no need to stop between inhales and exhales), it’s one of the most effective tools available for developing full, controlled breathing.
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This tool isn’t just for musicians - it’s for anyone who wants to breathe better.
Musicians & singers: Improve tone, phrasing, and endurance.
Athletes & runners: Boost oxygen efficiency and stamina.
Public speakers & actors: Enhance projection and vocal control.
People with asthma or respiratory conditions: Support lung function and build confidence in breathing.
If you use your lungs, you can use The Breath Builder®.
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Just a few minutes a day makes a difference.
We recommend:Beginners: 1–2 minutes at a time, with short breaks.
Intermediate users: 5–10 minutes during warm-up or cool-down.
Advanced users: Integrate it into your daily practice or fitness routine.
Tip: If you ever feel dizzy or lightheaded, rest before resuming. Your body is simply adjusting to increased oxygen intake.
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Follow these simple steps for a safe and effective breath training routine:
Start with all holes open. Blow steadily to lift the ball and keep it suspended.
Rest for about 30–60 seconds.
Close the large hole for added resistance and repeat.
Finally, close the large and one small hole - this increases pressure and builds advanced control.
With practice, you’ll be amazed at how much more air you can move - and how much easier breathing becomes.
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Absolutely. The Breath Builder® was designed with students in mind, and its simplicity makes it safe for daily use.
That’s why over 200 schools nationwide use it in their band and choir programs. Teachers love how it gives instant feedback and turns breath training into an engaging challenge rather than a chore. -
Many users with asthma or other mild respiratory concerns find that The Breath Builder® helps them breathe more deeply and comfortably over time. It encourages full, consistent lung engagement.
However, if you have a medical condition, we recommend checking with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or training regimen.
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The Breath Builder® remains the only breath training device that allows continuous airflow without stopping to adjust.
Other devices require resetting between breaths - ours doesn’t.
Plus, with over 50 years of proven use and millions of musicians trained, it’s the gold standard in breath development for a reason. -
For musicians, consistent air support is everything.
The Breath Builder® helps you:Strengthen your diaphragm for longer phrases and sustained notes
Build endurance for rehearsals and performances
Improve tone quality and resonance
Reach high notes and control low dynamics with ease
Whether you play flute, clarinet, trumpet, or tuba - it’s a must-have in your music bag.
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Music educators use The Breath Builder® in classrooms to:
Demonstrate airflow and lung support visually
Encourage students to compete playfully for control
Build awareness of how breath affects sound quality
Schools from Las Vegas to New York have trusted The Breath Builder® for decades because it’s engaging, affordable, and effective.
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You can easily order through our official online store.
We offer:
Single units for individual use
Bulk orders for schools, universities, and ensembles
Interested in outfitting your entire program?
Contact us at support@originabreathbuilder.com for custom educational pricing and packages