Lisa Haese Smith

"...consider how much marvellous notes or a charming song influence the spirits! A wonderful song giveth wings to the spirit and filleth the heart with exaltation." ~ 'Abdu'l-Bahá

I have been a musician for many years and my passionate love of music has found expression as a performer, teacher, film scorer and composer.

Born in South Africa, I have lived and worked in several countries.

I started composing in 2001 and put together a compilation CD of my earliest nine piano compositions. It was at this time that my interest in writing music for film started and I completed two short film scoring courses in Australia. From 2002-2004 I continued to write music for various short film projects and compose piano pieces; some of which have won national and international awards.

After writing the music for the award-winning documentary Giving It All Away: the life and times of Sir Roy Mackenzie produced by Paul Davidson, New Zealand, I wanted to know even more about film scoring. My dream was realised when I finally completed the Certificate Programme in Film Scoring at UCLA, Los Angeles in 2007.

In 2010 I released my first CD album 'Garden of Sweet Fragrance' and in 2012 another album 'The Orange Tree'. Both of these albums were recorded in Chicago, IL USA.

I have just completed the film score for the documentary 'Luminous Journey' produced by Perry Productions USA - www.luminousjourney.org It has been such a bounty in my life to be part of such an inspiring project.

My musical pathway has been so enriched not only by working and studying with Grammy and Emmy award-winning composers and producers; but most importantly it has been enriched by the love, encouragement and efforts of many people along the way! To all the family, friends and teachers who have been part of this journey, my deepest gratitude!

"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us." ~ Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965) - theologian, musician, philosopher and physician

Lisa Haese Smith's Websites: lisahaesesmith.com