Residing in the greater Seattle area, flutist and music educator, Kay Smith, loves to perform a diversity of classical repertoire with a hint of folk and jazz. Kay generally will play with a fundamentally dark sound compared to other flutists. One of her most memorable performances was a solo recital where she performed the works of Vivaldi, Kuhlau, Ian Clarke, and Claude Bolling. She often collaborates with the Ah Tempo Flutes, a flute choir based on the eastside of King county. Kay has also participated in ensembles such as, the British-Isles based group Mill Girls, and pit-orchestras for musicals like “The Music Man”, and “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Smith utilizes music as a way to express oneself, and believes that it can be understood across the world.
Smith has always loved music, but truly felt a passion when she started playing the flute. Kay later expanded her performance repertoire when she picked up the saxophone for jazz band. She still remembers being shocked when she received an outstanding soloist award at the Bellevue Jazz Festival. Smith has performed at venues such as Benaroya Hall, Central Washington University, Hal Holmes Center, and the Olympia Capitol Building, Washington. Smith also gained a reputation in college for her conducting skills, giving her the opportunity to conduct the flute choir at Central Washington University, as well as Eastside’s Flute Boot Camp, and Ah Tempo Flutes. In the community, Smith has taught at numerous venues such as, the Bellevue Boys and Girls preschool, schools in the Bellevue school district, and Han’s Jensen Day Camp.
Currently, Kay teaches elementary music at a public school in the east side of King county, and during her spare time gives flute clinics. Smith also teaches flute privately out of her home in the greater Seattle area. Kay is currently working on numerous projects such as recitals, recording, and online teaching courses.
Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Central Washington University, WA.