William Smith

William Smith received 2008 GAP Award funding to support the completion of Space in the Heart, a jazz opera. This piece takes inspiration from the improvisation of continuous performers during the Baroque period as well as the improvisational style of jazz today. William draws on classical models “to create a new kind of opera that involves jazz improvisation structured in a way that continues and expands the traditions of Western drama initiated by the ancient Greeks.” He is currently writing the piece with a libretto by Peter Monaghan. It will be recorded with three singers and three instrumentalists. He completed a residency from Jack Straw Productions’ 2008 Artist Support Program.

Will received a 2001 GAP Award from Artist Trust.