A symphony is not only the sound of instruments; it is a reflection of a community’s spirit, shaped by the vision of those who lead it. Over the years, the Colorado Springs Philharmonic has been fortunate to have had conductors who arrived at the right moment, each bringing what was necessary to guide the orchestra through times of challenge and change.
One of those leaders was Lawrence Leighton Smith, who served as Music Director from 2000 to 2011. His tenure is defined by his fierce commitment to artistic excellence and a bold vision for the future of the orchestra. Under Larry’s leadership, the Philharmonic experienced a resurgence in both performance quality and ambition, pushing both musicians and audiences to embrace the power of great music once more.
Larry was the kind of leader who demanded more from his musicians. He had an unwavering belief in the capacity of the orchestra to perform at the highest level, and he challenged them to meet those expectations. His leadership was about artistry—pushing boundaries, expanding repertoire, and embracing the very best of classical music. He instilled in the Philharmonic a renewed sense of purpose, reminding everyone involved of the transformative power of great music.
More than anything, Larry inspired a renewed belief in the importance of excellence and artistic ambition, helping the Philharmonic navigate through a critical period of revitalization. His focus was always on the sound, the craft, and the vision for the future, pushing the musicians to elevate their performances and reach new heights.
Looking back on his legacy, it’s clear he was exactly the leader the Philharmonic needed at that moment in its history. His belief in the orchestra’s potential and his pursuit of the highest standards of music-making left an indelible mark on the Philharmonic’s sound and its artistic journey.
As we turn to the future, we remember Lawrence Leighton Smith—whose leadership continues to shape the music we play today.
