Get Connected!

The Doublers Collective was kind enough to let me sit in on one of their rehearsals recently. I'm sure that attending a rehearsal does't sound that exciting... but when you have 5 people who can play a total of 13 different instruments, things get a little crazy. This isn't your typical , “Oh yeah, I play rhythm guiar, some bass and sometimes kit” situation. In this rehearsal, you have a small group of people expertly commanding an army of wind instruments. It took about 40 minutes for the group to set up, tune and get settled. The most impressive weapon in the Doubler's Collective arsenal is a bass saxophone. This behemoth was constructed in 1922, it's bell looks as big as a tuba bell, and I'm pretty sure it's bigger than me (certainly felt that way). It requires a harness that looks more like a device to cary a large child than a typical saxophone next strap. The co-ordination implamented to get through their songs was impressive. Instruments need to be placed in specific orders to accomidate for a clarinet section followed directly by a flute section that ends in a saxophone solo. It's not as frantic as it sounds. The Collective has orchestrated these changes beautifully.

Most of the music for the Collective has been written or arranged by Mike Croddy, the flugel horn/clarinet/flute/saxophone player. He is a long time resident of the valley and a promenint member of loal jazz families (name bands/organizations...). The founder and saxophone/flute/clarinet player Monica Shriver, met with me a while back to talk about the Doublers Collective on TWiP, my arts podcast. I've posted the interview at the bottom of this article for anyone who wants to know more about the Doublers. Monica is an Arizona native, and just like many AZ musicians, she was searching for an ensemble and in that search (need new word) descided to create a new breed of ensemble. There are huge advantages that come with playing more than one instrument really well. The idea itself is a draw, composers have a brand-new playground of sounds and textures and their group can be tailored to fit a plethora of gigs. The Doublers Collective has another adcantage- they all get along. Honestly, this doesn't always happen in the music world. Sometimes disagreements can be so severe that it is difficult to play in tune with your band mates. The Collective has an amazing group dynamic.

The Doublers Collective also wants to bring the concept of doubling to young musicians. They are open for hire to do clinics and performances at elementary through high schools. It is always wonderful to find ensembles who aim for the highest levels of musicality but also make room to reach out to younger generations.

The Doublers Collectie has a performance at Sacred Grounds on ….........

Notes from a Doubblers Collective Rehearsal or Obersations while Watching 5 People Play 13 Different Instruments.

END WITH CONCERT DATE @ SACRED GROUNDS!!!!