Claude T. Smith

Claude T. Smith (1932-1987) was one of the most successful composers of band music in the world when his untimely death brought an abrupt end to a brilliant career. A native of Missouri, he received his education at Central Methodist College, Fayette, Missouri, and at the University of Kansas. He taught instrumental music in the public schools of Nebraska and Missouri, and served on the faculty of Southwest Missouri State University. He was the composer or arranger of over 100 publications, and he had clearly established himself as one of the most popular composers and conductor/clinicians of our time. A dedicated educator and prolific composer, he left a legacy of works for bands and orchestras at virtually every level. At the time of his death, he was Educational Consultant and composer for Wingert-Jones Music, Inc. and a staff composer for Jenson Publications.