Today's Featured Artist: Christina Smith, flute - The Brandenburg Affair
Who is Christina Smith?
Christina Smith holds the esteem position of Principal Flute with the Atlanta Symphony orchestra. She is also one of the most sought-after flutists in the country as an orchestral player, soloist, chamber musician, and teacher. The 2015-16 season is Ms. Smith’s twenty-fifth anniversary season as principal flutist of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, where she holds the Jill Hertz Principal Flute chair, endowed in perpetuity. Ms. Smith’s flute solos can be heard on 37 ASO recordings. She has also appeared with the orchestra numerous times as concerto soloist. She graduated from Interlochen Arts Academy and began her studies at the Curtis Institute of Music as a pupil of the legendary Julius Baker. After just two years in Mr. Baker’s studio, she won the principal flute chair in the ASO at age 20. Ms. Smith has also studied with Jeffrey Khaner, Tim Day, and has collaborated extensively with master teacher and clinician Keith Underwood. Ms. Smith has recently appeared as guest principal flutist with orchestras such as the Chicago Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Vancouver Symphony, the Baltimore Symphony, the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, and the Pittsburgh Symphony. She earned critical acclaim while performing on the latter ensemble’s 2010 European Tour. Equally passionate about teaching, Ms. Smith serves on the faculty at Kennesaw State University and maintains a busy private studio. She remains highly in demand to teach masterclasses across the country. Why is The Brandenburg Affair so special to Christina?
"I am thrilled to perform in this concert of all six Brandenburg concerti! The only other time I have experienced all six was in performances with the ASO over a decade ago. The concerti are beautiful, joyful and engaging. I am also very excited to perform them in an unusual venue at the WCAC. I think the acoustics will be fantastic and the modern urban vibe with the art deco bar will be a unique experience for everyone."