A weekend of glorious music and heartfelt goodbyes celebrating Maestros Smith’s last set as Conductor begins Friday, May 11, 7:30 pm at Alhambra High School in Martinez and Saturday, May 12, 2:00 pm at El Campanil in Antioch.  His final and farewell performance is Sunday, May 13, 2:00 pm at Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek.  Mr. Smith bids a fond adieu to the Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra after a decade of conducting wonderfully varied and engaging programs, and outstanding collaborations with featured solo artists.  

If Tim Smith were to sum up his life in six words, it would be “Making music always makes me happy,” and this passion is reflected in his work and outlook on his time spent with CCCO. For Tim, it has been a joyous fellowship of musical talent.

His affectionate memories of CCCO’s continued artistic growth included the pleasure of working with new wonderful artists as well as musicians who were there during his entire tenure as conductor.  “It is a true joy to observe the genuine enjoyment of the multi-generational interactions among our musicians, ranging from 17 years old to mid-80s. The group has continued a tradition of excellence, while still maintaining a family feel.”

Maestro Smith has seen the audience demographic grow from a majority of older attendees, friends and family of orchestra members to younger audience members from local high schools.  And the past season attendance from Rossmoor was wildly successful, with the hope for many more performances there. If there was an accomplishment he wished he could have furthered, it would have been to reach a wider, more diverse audience.  “I think CCCO is one of the Bay area’s best kept secrets. I would have liked to share our music with more folks.” That being said, Tim has high hopes for CCCO’s future under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Chad Goodman. Praising Chad’s zeal and uniquely creative entrepreneurial skill, Tim anticipates Chad’s gifts in marketing and business bringing CCCO to tremendous success in the tradition of exemplary music-making and broadening audience attendance.

Reflecting on the variety of programs he has conducted with CCCO through the years makes it difficult for Tim to pick a favorite. Proud to have performed such an incredible repertoire from well-known classics, 20th and 21st century composers, Great American Songbook and film scores, a particular program stands out.  “HERstory” was comprised entirely of works by women composers, including the world premiere of Estafania Webster’s “Tren Del Fin Del Mundo.”  

After retiring from CCCO, Maestro Smith will continue his work as clinician, guest conductor, adjudicator and professional performer.  In addition, he is Music and Artistic Director of a fine community wind band in Sacramento, northwest of his country estate. Plans to spend more time with his wife, granddaughters and traveling fill the rest of his still-busy schedule. With music in his heart, mind and soul, Tim represents the best amalgam of those four essences.  As Calvin Coolidge once said, “Talent will not…Genius will not…Education alone will not….Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence….persistence and determination.” Heartfelt thanks to Tim Smith for his dedication and professionalism.

Concert Dates

Friday, May 11, 7:30 pm, Alhambra High School, Martinez
Adults, $10; Seniors and Youth, $5

Saturday, May 12, 2:00 pm, El Campanil Theatre, Antioch, 925-757-9500 www.elcampaniltheatre.com Adults $15; Seniors (62 & over) $12; Youth (17 & under) $7

Sunday, May 13, 2:00pm, Lesher Arts Center, Walnut Creek, 925-943-7469 www.lesherartscenter.org Adults $30; Seniors $20; Youth (17 & under) $10