About Byron Smith

Education: Bachelor's Degree in General/Choral Music Education from George Mason University School of Music, Virginia Teaching License for Music grades k-12

Performance Experience: Sung in George Mason University Singers for 5 years; Served as Section Leader in GMU's University Chorale for 3 years (sang as a member of the choir for 2 years prior); Ensemble de Pain Musicale (Choir that specialized in French choral works) for 2 years; Section Leader and Soloist at Saint Francis Episcopal Church in Great Falls, Virginia, for 5 years; Quartet member during Easter and Christmas Services at Clifton Presbyterian Church for 2 years; Accompanist for voice students for 6 years

Teaching Experience: Elementary School General Music Class for 1 year, Private Piano lessons for 11 years, and Private Voice lessons for 6 years

Teaching Philosophy: Music is an important part of culture that has been around since man took its first steps. It is an art form that exemplifies a wide variety of subjects, and can aid in preserving a person's physical and mental health. It is very important that we preserve this art form whenever we can, by passing down our knowledge to others. It is also important to be able to express oneself in a manner that is both emotionally and physically safe, and every piano and voice lesson is structured on this basis.