The American Jazz Institute

Smith has been a major presence in the LA jazz scene for many years, as a highly regarded composer and educator as well as stellar player. However, it is an especially rewarding experience to have him step out a sideman, supportive role and play his own music and lead his handpicked group through an evening of tasteful soloing. During his illustrious jazz career, he has performed with a long list of greats, among them Thelonious Monk, Art Blakey, Bob Brookmeyer, Willie Bobo, Toshiko Akiyoshi, Art Farmer, Gary Foster, Warne Marsh and Alan Broadbent. But Putter Smith's composing and playing skills were never more warmly received by a jazz audience than on this concert evening at Claremont McKenna College.