Ryan Smith

 

Director of Bands - Lakota Freshman School

Associate Director of Bands - Lakota West High School

513-874-5699 ext 10055

ryan.smith@lakotaonline.com
 

 

Experience. Prior to joining the Lakota West Bands in 2008, Mr. Smith spent 6 years serving asdirector of bands with the Huron City Schools. While at Huron, the bands showedmarked improvement, and in 2008, received the first Superior rating at OMEA StateContest in school history. In addition, the Huron Bands performed at The University ofAkron, University of Toledo, and performances at Disney World in 2004, 2006, & 2008.

While pursuing his Master's Degree at the University of Akron, Mr. Smith served as agraduate assistant with the both the band and music education departments. His responsibilities included serving as the director of the University Band, teaching variousundergraduate methods courses, assisting with the University of Akron Marching Band, and guest conducting both the Symphonic and Concert Bands. Mr. Smith continues to serve on the part-time faculty at the University of Akron.  

 

Performances. Mr. Smith's bands at Huron High School consistently earned superior and excellentratings at OMEA District and State Adjudicated events. From 2002-2008, the HuronHigh School Band program doubled in size. In 2008, the Huron Concert Band wasinvited to perform at The University of Akron Band Clinic.

Mr. Smith remains active as a saxophonist, having performed with the Cleveland JazzOrchestra, Cleveland Orchestra Concert Band, Ray Charles, Clark Terry, Bill Holman, Bob Brookmeyer, Maria Schneider, 10,000 Maniacs, & Aretha Franklin. In addition, Ryan has performed as a soloist with both the Akron and Canton Symphony Orchestras. In 2002, Mr. Smith had the privilege to be selected to the OMEA Intercollegiate HonorsJazz Ensemble.

 

Education. A 1994 graduate of Massillon Perry High School, Mr. Smith holds a Bachelor's Degreefrom the University of Akron. After student teaching with the North Royalton Bands, hereturned to Akron to earn his Master's Degree.

 

Professional Activity. Mr. Smith holds membership in the Ohio Music Education Association and MENC. In addition, he is currently serving as the chairperson for the 2009 OMEA All State JazzEnsemble.