Ashley Smith

Dr Ashley Smith is an Associate Professor and Senior Lecturer at the University of Western Australia's Conservatorium of Music, where he serves as Head of Winds and Contemporary Performance. He is also a renowned clarinettist, performing globally with ensembles like the Southern Cross Soloists, Calder Quartet, Dover Quartet, and Australian String Quartet.

• Education: Yale University (Graduate), University of Western Australia (Graduate), Australian National Academy of Music (Fellow)
• Doctorate: University of Western Australia (2020), focusing on moment form in Franco Donatoni's solo works

Smith's research expertise spans Post-Tonal Music Analysis, Contemporary Performance Practice, and New Music Development. His creative research outputs emphasize collaborative improvisation, chamber transcriptions, and algorithmic analytical approaches in contemporary performance contexts.

Recent research outputs include performances of John Adams' Clarinet Concerto, Brian Ferneyhough's Time and Motion Study No. 1, and world premieres of works by Lachlan Skipworth and First Nations artists. These projects highlight his engagement with world premiere, collaborative performance, and contemporary repertoire.

Scientific Awards & Recognitions

• Music Council of Australia Freedman Fellowship
• ABC Symphony International Young Performer Award
• Churchill Fellowship
• APRA Performance of the Year (2015)
• Conservatorium of Music Early-Career Research Award (2022)
• UWA Guild Student Choice Award (2020)
• Australia Council for the Arts Development Fellowship (2020)
• UWA FABLE Excellence in Teaching Award (2020)

As a mentor, Smith has supervised creative research projects and served in leadership roles including Chair of the Woodwind Performance Program. He actively collaborates with institutions like the Australia Council for the Arts and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra.