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The Twin Tiers Collective EPK
The Twin Tiers Collective is an octet composed of members from the United Musicians of the Twin Tiers Local 380-443, united by a mission to bring Jazz and the rich traditions of American music to regional schools and communities. They aim to raise awareness about the importance of the arts and arts education, and the role the arts play in building and sustaining vibrant, healthy communities.
Led by guitarist, arranger, and educator Bill Farrish, the group features eight of the region’s finest instrumentalists, some of whom has performed or recorded with world renowned jazz and pop musicians. Their repertoire includes works by jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie’s Parker, Horace Silver, and Chick Corea, as well as modern classics by The Brecker Brothers, Jimi Hendrix, and more.
In addition to performances, the group offers optional one-hour workshops or masterclasses led by Bill Farrish. These sessions can focus on improvised music or any music-related topic, tailored to the needs of the community or school, often in collaboration with a band or music director. With over 30 years of experience as a jazz and music educator in New York State colleges and 40 years as a professional musician, Mr. Farrish brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to these sessions.
What we do
Concerts
Concerts provided to schools and certain communities are a free service thanks to art supporting grants.
Workshops / Clinics
Focusing on improvisation our workshops are accessible to students of all ages and levels.
Events / Festivals
The Twin Tiers Collective is also available to perform at special events, music festivals and other live music venues.(Use the contact form below for more information.)
In a time when arts programs are often the first to face budget cuts,
it is essential to inspire students, parents, and caregivers to recognize the value of music. Supporting music programs in schools and communities can have a lasting impact, ensuring that these programs thrive and contributing to the foundation of a positive, civic-minded society.
Beyond entertainment, the arts play a critical role in developing well-rounded, intelligent students. Participation in music ensembles teaches the importance of teamwork, creating an environment where every individual’s contribution is valued.
Jazz, America’s true art form,
embodies the principles of democracy. In a jazz ensemble, each member contributes to the collective sound while having the freedom to express themselves individually. Just as the United States embraces diverse cultures, Jazz has absorbed and integrated musical influences from around the world, keeping the genre vibrant and making it one of the most celebrated art forms globally.
Over time, Jazz has grown from its African American roots to include influences from Latin American, Caribbean, European, and Asian musical traditions. It has also embraced popular music through jazz rock and fusion, encompassing everything from Broadway tunes to avant-garde free improvisation. Jazz fosters critical thinking, cultural acceptance, and a sense of responsibility for uplifting others. It reminds us that we build on the work of those who came before us while encouraging us to create our own path—qualities that are more important than ever in shaping the next generation.
Booking Information
To book a performance for your venue or a performance/workshop for your school contact Evan Jagels with all pertinent information.