About this Artist

Megumi Smith, a native of Tokyo, Japan, is an accomplished percussionist and educator. Her musical journey began at the age of three when she started studying piano. In 2006, she moved to Southern California, where she earned a Master’s degree in Percussion Performance from California State University, Northridge (CSUN). She also holds a Level II certification in Orff Schulwerk, further enhancing her teaching expertise.

Passionate about education, Ms. Smith teaches piano and percussion to students of all ages while maintaining an active freelance career as a percussionist in Southern California. Her notable performance credits include appearances at the Hollywood Bowl with Los Tigres del Norte and participation in the LA Phil Neighborhood Concerts series under the baton of Gustavo Dudamel.

Currently, Ms. Smith is on the faculty at Santa Monica College, California State University, Dominguez Hills, and Youth Orchestra Los Angeles at Heart of Los Angeles (YOLA @ HOLA), where she teaches beginning percussion classes, percussion ensemble, music fundamentals, and private lessons. Her teaching experience also includes guest faculty positions with the Longy School of Music of Bard College's MAT program and previous teaching roles at Loyola Marymount University.