American composer Elijah Daniel Smith creates lush densities by blending the overt lyricism and romanticism of centuries passed with the textural complexities and ambiguities of the ever-evolving musical world in which he lives. From the sonic aggression of heavy-metal, to the dramatic elegance of opera, the fantastical silver-screen, the youthful energy of indie-rock, and the introspective nature of his contemporary-classical music, Elijah’s compositions are a reflection of his insatiable musical curiosity.

Elijah’s educational background is as diverse as his creative output. He began with piano at age 5, added guitar at age 10, and expanded his musical endeavors through the study of classical voice as a member of the inaugural class of Chicago’s first ever public performing arts high school, and Merit School of Music’s Renée Fleming initiative. After discovering his passion for composition, Elijah earned a Bachelor of Music Degree with honors from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee under the tutelage of Jonathan Bailey Holland, Marti Epstein, and John Murphree. In 2015, Elijah received his first orchestral commission from the West Suburban Symphonic Society; in 2016 he was commissioned to write an original work for the Bridge the Gap Initiative, celebrating the merger of The Boston Conservatory and Berklee College of Music; In 2017, he was selected for the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra’s Young Composer Initiative, as well as being commissioned by ContemPro Dance Theatre for their 2017-18 season. He is currently pursuing his Master’s Degree in composition at The Peabody Conservatory, studying with Oscar Bettison.