Walter Smith III is an accomplished American jazz saxophonist, composer, and educator. Born on September 24, 1980, in Houston, Texas, he began playing the saxophone at age seven, inspired by his father, an elementary music teacher. Smith's musical journey started early, with his first gig playing "Blue Bossa" at a McDonald's in Houston.
Smith's formal education includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Education from Berklee College of Music and a Master of Music in Jazz Studies from Manhattan School of Music. Known for his contemporary post-bop style and innovative approach to composition, Smith has become a respected figure in the jazz world.
Throughout his career, Walter Smith III has collaborated with numerous jazz luminaries and been a member of several notable groups, including:
Smith has performed at prestigious venues worldwide such as Carnegie Hall, the Village Vanguard, and the Kennedy Center. He has also appeared on over 100 recordings released globally.
Smith's discography as a leader includes:
His most recent album, "Return to Casual," released in April 2023 on Blue Note Records, has received critical acclaim. His upcoming album, "Three of us are from Houston and Reuben is not," is set for release in September 2024.
As an educator, Walter Smith III currently serves as the Chair of the Woodwind Department at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. He is committed to nurturing the next generation of jazz musicians, encouraging students to develop their unique voices.
Smith's musical style is characterized by a rich, airy tone and a creative approach to melody and harmony. His influences include:
Known for his ability to blend traditional jazz elements with modern innovations, Smith is a significant figure in contemporary jazz.
Throughout his career, Walter Smith III has received various scholarships and prestigious jazz awards, including the Presidential Scholar in the Arts. He continues to be an influential figure in the jazz world, both as a performer and an educator, shaping the future of the genre while honoring its rich traditions.
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