W. Carter Smith, D.M.A.

About Carter

Dr. Carter Smith is a conductor, educator, singer, and performer, teaching voice, music theory, and conducting the choirs at the Interlochen Arts Academy.

Prior to moving to Interlochen, Smith enjoyed a wide-ranging professional career in music. He most recently worked as the Interim Conductor of the Arts Chorale of Greater Lansing and the Acting Director of Music Ministries at the First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ann Arbor. Prior positions include Director of Choral Activities for the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, Graduate Assistant at Michigan State University, Chorus Master for Opéra Louisiane (Baton Rouge), Choir Director at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church (East Lansing), and Director of Music for University United Methodist Church (Baton Rouge).

Smith holds a Doctor of Musical Arts (Choral Conducting) from Michigan State University, where he studied with Dr. David Rayl, Dr. Sandra Snow, and Dr. Jonathan Reed. He also holds a Master of Music (Choral Conducting) from Louisiana State University where he studied with Dr. Kenneth Fulton and Maestro Carlos Riazuelo, and a Bachelor of Music (Vocal Performance) from LSU, where he studied with Dr. Lori Bade and Prof. Dennis Jesse.

In the classroom and the rehearsal hall, my goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment for all students to grow in their knowledge of the subject matter and in their respect and appreciation for each other. I believe that the foundation of an excellent choral sound is rooted in healthy vocal production, and I consistently educate and encourage my singers to take ownership of their vocal development and incorporate healthy singing, no matter the genre or style of music. It is my job as a conductor to give the students the tools to take ownership over their musical growth and development.