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Joseph Smith Obituary
Joseph Smith, pianist, vocal coach, music teacher, writer, and lecturer, died early on March 23nd, 2015. His death came as a sudden interruption of vigorous life. He is survived by his many colleagues and students who loved him for himself and for his musical insights, and by his loving brother Daniel. He was born on July 4th, 1948, the son of Robert Paul Smith and Elinor Goulding Smith.
He reveled in rediscovering piano works of real musical value that had fallen unjustly into obscurity, and bringing them to public attention. He had professional interests in the composers Field, Weber, Griffes, and Grieg, and a special devotion to the work of Percy Grainger and Robert Schumann.
Joseph Smith's website, http://www.josephsmithpianist.com will remain online through the end of 2015. Information on any memorial events will be posted there when details are known. Some of his videos can be found by searching YouTube for "joseph smith steinway1901."
In keeping with his wishes there will be no traditional funeral. His colleagues and friends expect to host a memorial event at Montclair State College in New Jersey, where he had been teaching for many years.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Smith
5 Entries
Thom Pernice
June 27, 2015
Joe, I was always in awe of your talent and quiet intellect, you just loved music. Peace from an old HS friend.
Saul Lilienstein
April 30, 2015
What a shock and sorrow to read of this. Joe and I go back to 1968, when I relied so much on his meticulous musicianship and then more and more in the next few years on his friendship and our always illuminating interchanges. In recent years, by phone and email, the geographic distance between us meant nothing. The shared friendship and joys in music went on. By all rights I should have gone first. I'll miss you, Joe.
Dori Di Palma
April 8, 2015
Joe had an incisive wit, sly humor, an immense compendium of musical knowledge, and an honest love of music evinced in his plethora of written works, lectures, and his exquisitely sensitive piano playing. I have been blessed and privileged to work with and know this kind, gentle and humble man. I miss you,Joe!
Bobbe Anderson
March 30, 2015
From what I read about him, II wish that I had met him. May your fond memories of him give you peace.
Joe, 1974
Daniel Smith
March 30, 2015
Joe's first recital, at Carnegie Recital Hall, 1974.
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