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Michael Francis Smith is an American composer, songwriter, author, and music educator with over 30 years of experience, including 23 years as a K-12 Music Department Chair in Massachusetts. Known for promoting inclusive and creative music-making for all students, he has presented at the Midwest Band Clinic in Chicago and music educator conferences nationwide. Dedicated to broadening and reforming music education, his work emphasizes building on the body of research that promotes auditory readiness, playing by ear, and improvisation throughout all stages of engaging with notation

Currently, Dr. Smith is dedicated to nurturing young musicians with a balanced approach to music-making and literacy. His innovative programs, “It's Time to Play (A Band Instrument)” and “It's Time to Play (The Recorder),” accelerate student learning and enhance literacy as students sing and play a diverse repertoire of songs from around the world. This fall, he will introduce “It's Time to Play (A String Instrument).” Through his groundbreaking method, "Eleven Leaps to Literacy," Dr. Smith bridges the gap between General Music and Instrumental Music, unlocking each student's full musical potential.

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Alongside his innovative work in music education, Michael Francis Smith showcases his original compositions for Band, Chorus, and Orchestra on prominent platforms like the J.W. Pepper website and mfmsmithmusic.com. Smith's music is celebrated for its unifying, uplifting, and accessible qualities. His current focus as a composer is to incorporate folk music from cultures around the world, helping all students feel they belong in their musical ensembles. Additionally, he emphasizes creativity and improvisation, encouraging students to see themselves as music-makers.

Dr. Smith is a multifaceted individual who has made significant contributions to the worlds of music and community building. As a founder and conductor of the Abington Community Band, he has brought joy to audiences for over 25 years with annual summer and holiday concerts. He has served as a Minister of Music and Worship for over twelve years, creating and performing original songs, hymns, and choral music rich and broad in theology. Alongside his career in music, he is also a passionate gardener who finds hope and inspiration in cultivating beautiful outdoor spaces.