Howie Smith

Awarded: 2009
Born: Pottsville, Pennsylvania

"A jazz musician’s responsibility is to learn the history of the music, play it and add something new."

- Howie Smith

A virtuoso saxophonist, composer and jazz musician, Howie Smith does not easily fit into a single category. He has performed with musicians, organizations and composers, ranging from Elvis Presley to the Cleveland Orchestra. He has composed and produced commercial jingles for radio and television. He has taught at major academic institutions in the United States and Australia and has served on panels for the National Endowment of the Arts. No matter what the setting, Smith strives to make great music.