Meaning: Lee Konitz, a renowned jazz musician, made this statement reflecting on his understanding of the music industry and the role of different instruments in his career. In this quote, Konitz highlights the significance of the saxophone as his primary instrument, emphasizing its centrality in his work. He also refers to the clarinet as a "double," indicating its secondary role in his musical pursuits.

Lee Konitz's statement sheds light on the practical considerations and strategic decisions that musicians often face in their careers. As a saxophonist, Konitz recognized the importance of establishing expertise and proficiency on a specific instrument, particularly one that holds a prominent position in jazz and other musical genres. His acknowledgment of the saxophone as the "main instrument" underscores the pivotal role it played in shaping his musical identity and professional trajectory.

Konitz's reference to the clarinet as a "double" elucidates the concept of instrumental versatility and the benefits of being proficient in multiple instruments. In the realm of jazz and popular music, many musicians, including Konitz, have embraced the practice of doubling on secondary instruments to expand their artistic repertoire and enhance their opportunities for performance and collaboration. The term "double" is commonly used in musical contexts to denote an instrument that serves as a secondary or supplementary asset to a musician's primary focus.

In the jazz tradition, the saxophone has held a special place as a quintessential instrument, renowned for its expressive capabilities and its integral role in shaping the genre's evolution. From the pioneering contributions of artists such as Charlie Parker and John Coltrane to the contemporary innovations of performers like Kamasi Washington, the saxophone has consistently exerted a profound influence on the sonic landscape of jazz. Lee Konitz's recognition of the saxophone's significance aligns with a broader historical and cultural appreciation for the instrument within the jazz idiom.

Furthermore, Konitz's perspective offers insight into the nuanced dynamics of instrumental specialization and diversification within the music industry. While emphasizing the saxophone as his primary vehicle for artistic expression, he also acknowledges the value of having proficiency on the clarinet as a complementary asset. This dual approach reflects a strategic orientation towards maximizing opportunities for creative engagement and professional advancement, demonstrating the pragmatic considerations that inform musicians' instrumental choices.

Beyond the specific instruments mentioned, Konitz's quote resonates with broader themes of professional identity, artistic agency, and the evolving nature of musical practice. His deliberate recognition of the saxophone's centrality underscores the deeply personal and vocational dimensions of instrumental allegiance, as well as the ways in which musicians navigate the complexities of specialization and versatility in their craft.

In conclusion, Lee Konitz's contemplation on the roles of the saxophone and clarinet in his musical pursuits offers a window into the intricate deliberations and strategic imperatives that shape a musician's career. By foregrounding the saxophone as his primary instrument and characterizing the clarinet as a "double," Konitz articulates the considerations and commitments that underpin instrumental choices in the music industry. His reflection enriches our understanding of the multifaceted relationships between musicians and their instruments, illuminating the interplay of tradition, innovation, and professional discernment in the pursuit of artistic excellence.