DEREK SMITH

Derek's performances always brought me great joy, and I was honored to interview him for one of my books. He talked about his great friend and musical partner, Milt Hinton. I often play his album, "Dark Eyes".

Interesting in that, on 1st anniversary of Derek's death, I was mentioning him to a group of friends. He performed for our first Pensacola symphony Ball and appeared with bassist Milt Hinton and drummer Bobby Rosengarden twice for Pensacola Jazzfest. I would also see him frequently at Dick Gibson and Arbors Records jazz parties.

I counted Derek as a dear friend.

derek was an amazing musician and person....his playing reflected his personality and skill ..just full of gusto and verve..we will all miss him..but will never forget him

I worked with Derek a bit in the '90s. He was a joy to play music with and a very nice guy. RIP

I am writing an obituary on Derek for Jersey Jazz Magazine. I know he is survived by his wife, Shirley. If anyone knows the names and locations of his children and how many grandchildren he had, can you email me at [email protected]. Thank you.

Derek was fine gentleman as well as superb jazz pianist. He appeared for Pensacola JazzFest twice in trio format with bassist Milt Hinton and drummer Bobby Rosengarden.
He was also guest pianist for first Pensacola Symphony Ball in late 1980s.
Sympathy to the family. He made the world a better place.

Norman Vickers
www.jazzpensacola.com

May he rest in peace. such a wonderful musician

We attended a "Salute to Derek Smith" at a Highlights in Jazz concert a few years back. His playing was superb.

I was lucky enough to see Derek perform in a small club in NJ several times. He was the consummate professional and boy could he swing. He will be missed.