Garrett Breeze

Kevin Duggan (Show Choir Arrangers You Should Know)

Duggan Arrangements was started in 2012 by Kevin Duggan. Over the years, Duggan Arrangements has been commissioned to arrange for over 40 award-winning groups across the US. Whether you are looking for a custom chart or a prearranged title, Duggan Arrangements is happy to find exactly what your group needs.

1. Please describe your basic setup.  (Your technical setup as well as the physical space that you work in.)

I run a basic Finale setup as far as software goes, and my tracks are created through a SynthFont program that has better sounds than the original MIDI provided on notation software. I’m usually on my laptop when I’m set up in my living room so I can let my puppy play around while I work!

2. What is your process for brainstorming or inspiration-seeking as you start a new arrangement?

When I’m brainstorming, first and foremost, I consider the group the chart is for; what is their combo setup? What purpose does the number serve? What are their numbers on stage, and what voicing? What are the strengths and weaknesses of the group as a whole? Is there a solo, and what voice type will sing it?

3. What is your go-to snack and/or drink when arranging?

Coffee, water, and tea are always on hand…I never turn down some candy, either. 

4. What is one thing you wish you would have known when you started arranging?

I wish I would’ve known that not every chart will be a home run, especially in the beginning, but there’s always something to learn about what works and what doesn’t when the arrangement is put on stage. Also, I wish I would’ve known early on that texture is so very important for many reasons—just because you CAN write something for everyone all the time doesn’t mean you NEED to.

5. What is your favorite shortcut or time-saving trick in your notation software?

Vertical Collision Remover is so nice when making edits to the score, I use it when I finish a chart, after adding the dynamics and articulations, and make small changes from there. 

6. What is a favorite arrangement of yours?

I arranged a bluesy, swingy PMJ-inspired version of Crazy Train for Columbus North “Vocal Pointe” this year that I think turned out pretty neat! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1t2NJAKD8VgngZdnVax0b6lGpiibHJfRQ/view?usp=drivesdk

7. How can people get ahold of you?

Website: dugganarrangements.com

Email: DugganArrangements@gmail.com

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Garrett Breeze

COMPOSER, ARRANGER

Garrett Breeze is a composer, arranger, and orchestrator whose credits include film, television, video games, Broadway stars, major classical artists, and many of the top school music programs in the U.S.

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