DEBORAH SMITH

Deborah Smith, a trombonist, performer, composer/arranger, educator, student, and bandleader, hailing from Bridgeport, Connecticut, discovered her passion for the trombone at age 13 in her middle school band program. Immersed in the arts from a young age, she explored various creative outlets, finding solace in music through school ensembles and outside programs.

Now completing her third-year as Jazz Studies/Performance major at Temple University’s Boyer College of Music, she is currently studying privately with trombonist Robert Edwards. In her time at Temple University, she has participated in various ensembles such as the Temple University Lab Band (Led by Steve Fidyk), Jazz Band Number Three (Led by Dan Monaghan), Jazz Band Number Four (Led by Jon Shaw), Elio Villafranca Ensemble, Josh Richman Ensemble, Joe McDonough Ensemble, Vicente Archer Ensemble and Mark Patterson Ensemble.

Deborah has graced stages from Philadelphia’s own Chris’ Jazz Cafe, to Birdland Jazz Club in New York City. Her versatility shines through her roles in ensembles like the Gabriel Meyer Creative Orchestra, Grace Fox Big Band, the Elm City Big Band, and her leadership of the Deborah Smith Septet and Deborah Smith Quartet. In the span of her musical career, Smith has worked closely and studied with renowned musicians such as Steve Davis, Bennie Wallace, Godwin Louis, Alex Tremblay, Matt Dwonszyk, Tim Warfield, Ruth Naomi Floyd, Joe McDonough, Mark Patterson, and more.

Recognized with the Billy Strayhorn Jazz Education Award in 2023, awarded by Terell Stafford and Galen Demus, she remains dedicated to inspiring others through her boundless love for music. Her journey in music is only just beginning, driven by a relentless pursuit of growth and a mission to share the beauty of music worldwide.

Deborah Smith is currently based in Philadelphia and Connecticut.