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Smith Dobson Quartet

Drummer/vibraphonist/saxophonist Smith Dobson V has been performing in the Bay Area for over twenty years.

Originally from Santa Cruz, Dobson is a member of an important jazz family. His father, the late Smith Dobson IV, was a world reknowned pianist and director of the jazz series at the Garden City in San Jose for over twenty years, where he accompanied the likes of Art Pepper, Stan Getz, Bobby Hutcherson, Harold Land, Chet Baker, Red Norvo, Tal Farlow, and Lee Konitz, and Wallace Roney, to name a few. Also in the family, Grandfather Smith III is a jazz accordionist; Grandmother Norma, Mother Gail, and Sister Sasha are all jazz vocalists. The family often performed as a group at the Garden City, and other venues, as well as many local schools and workshops.

As a child, Smith V had the opportunity to study with legendary jazz drummer Albert "Tootie" Heath, who said of his pupil: "He has the talent, determination and persistence as a musician, combined with the dedication necessary to succeed... improvisational skills totally advanced, excellent sensitivity, both solo and as an accompanist...my most talented student!"

Dobson has been performing with his various groups at many major Bay Area venues, and has had the honor of working with some of the great Jazz artists, locally and internationally, such as Bobby Hutcherson, Red Rodney, John Handy, Sheila Jordan, Red Holloway, Pete and Conte Condoli, Phillip Harper, Hal Stein, Noel Jewekes, Ben Goldberg, Graham Connah's Sour Note Seven, Darren Johnstone, Charlie Shoemake, Will Bernard, and Kenny Brooks.

Dobson's latest venture is playing jazz influenced by the iconic Lester Young and early swing era. Band members include Keith Saunders, piano, John Wiitala, bass and Tony Johnson on drums.