Doug Carmichael is a respected musician and dedicated music teacher based in Colorado, known for his captivating performances and inspiring teaching style. As a saxophonist with a passion for jazz, Doug has been an integral part of the Colorado music scene, performing with a variety of ensembles and connecting with audiences across the region. His playing style, rooted in jazz and infused with blues and modern influences, reflects his love for improvisation and his deep connection to the music.
Beyond performing, Doug is committed to sharing his knowledge with the next generation of musicians. As a teacher, he fosters creativity, discipline, and an appreciation for music in his students, whether they are aspiring professionals or simply exploring music for the joy of it. Doug’s approach combines technical instruction with an emphasis on expression, encouraging each student to find their unique musical voice.
Doug Carmichael’s contributions as both a performer and educator have made him a valued member of Colorado’s musical community, where he continues to inspire through both his art and his mentorship.
Doug has taught private saxophone lessons for over 30 years. He has also taught music in the public schools ranging from elementary, middle school, high school and college. He has taught in the Denver Public School, Douglas County Schools, Cherry Creek School and has spent the most of his time in the St. Vrain Valley School District. Doug has taught symphonic band, marching band, wind ensemble, jazz band, small ensembles, string orchestra, full orchestra, music theory, stage tech, beginning guitar, advanced guitar, film studies, and drums in the public schools. He has also taught through the Colorado Honor Band and also with the Colorado Jazz Workshop. Doug has been a judge for various band and orchestra festivals as well as solo and ensemble contests.
Doug has been performing since high school. He has performed with CSpot Groove, 3ology, Greeley's Matt Pack, the Longmont Symphony, the Jean Pool Trio, Fort Collins' Deafuncle, DKO, the Dale Ness Quartet, Jockamo, the Lucky Few, Otone Brass Band, the Lee Thomas Band, the Vipers, Makeshift Funk Band, Archie Funker, Boulder's Funk Knuf, the Just for Kicks Big Band, the John Mills Orchestra, Mojo jazz duo and Mojomama.
Doug still and always will take music lessons in some capacity. He's currently taking online saxophone lessons with Bob Reynolds, the saxophone player with Snarky Puppy. Doug has taken lessons on saxophone, flute, clarinet, oboe, violin, viola, cello, string bass, trumpet, trombone, guitar, electric bass, drums, and piano. He takes classes every summer for teaching recertification through CSU. These classes range from educational psychology to music composition.
Doug Plays on Selmer, Eastman and Yamaha saxophones. His soprano is an Eastman 52nd street with a custom Otto Link mouthpiece. His Altos are a Selmer Mark VII and an Eastman 52nd Street with a custom short shank Selmer mouthpiece. His Tenors are a Selmer Mark VI and an Eastman 52nd Street with a custom short shank Selmer mouthpiece. His baritone saxophone is a Yamaha 52 with a custom Vandoren.