The Musical DeChamplains by

Atla DeChamplain

My collaboration with Matt DeChamplain started at The Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts in Hartford, Connecticut (2001). At 15 and 16, we were immersed in jazz, driven by a deep passion for the history, culture, and music. We gigged at senior homes and restaurants, building our repertoire and the art of preparing a captivating set. These early gigs laid a unique foundation for our musical endeavors and solidified a close bond, personally and professionally.

After high school, I went to the University of Toledo to study with jazz luminary Jon Hendricks, while Matt attended The Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz at the Hartt School of Music. Despite the physical distance, we stayed together and got married after graduation.

The music at our wedding was important to us. We had a hard time picking our song because we had a deep, romantic connection with so many songs like Too Young by Nat King Cole, I’m Old Fashioned by John Coltrane, and The Very Thought of You by Ella Fitzgerald. Every song we thought of, we’d say, “That’s it!” Then, we’d think of 10 more. Eventually, Matt sang a few lines of This is Always to me and I was sold.

When we had the opportunity to go back to school, we returned to the University of Toledo, mentored by Jon Hendricks, to earn our Masters in Music, Jazz Performance. It was amazing to have access to one of our heroes and be mentored together!

We had a residency at a beautiful hotel in downtown Toledo. When Jon Hendrix showed up, Matt wanted to ask, “Why are you even here?” But that was Jon! He was generous with his time and very encouraging. He took the time to look up our gigs, and he’d sit in, so we could experience his mastery. I’ll never forget how I felt when he appeared. Alarm, smiles, and pure joy. Jon brought out the best in us.

Following graduation, we recorded our first album together, Pause (2015) The album is a time capsule of our collaborative journey, with recordings with various ensembles, over eight years. As a couple, musical collaboration requires conscious effort and balance. We support each other’s development without directing it. We have one CD player and one speaker in the kitchen! We prioritize having separate time and space. Our one-car garage is a studio. We each have time by ourselves to work. Although we focus on growing in our own directions, our musical identities complement each other.

Performing together brings an incredible sense of intimacy. On stage, communication through eye contact and body language is second nature to us because of our deep connection. Often, I hear other wives say their husbands don’t listen to them, but that’s impossible on stage! Matt’s attentiveness and support as a pianist are unparalleled, making him the best musical partner I could ask for. His ability to listen and respond to me, and his bandmates is humbling and inspiring.

When you’re performing improvised music, you’re compelled to respond to each other in the most empathetic way. This responsibility to the music transcends personal challenges we have. Once our feet hit the bandstand, we’re serving the music and it’s such a gift to do this together. Making music together is the cornerstone of our journey, shaping our marriage, parenting, and lifestyle. We have learned the importance of mutual growth, deep listening, and unwavering support for one another.

www.atlaandmatt.com