Joshua Stephen Smith

Joshua Stephen Smith serves as Assistant Professor of Music and Coordinator of the Music Department at the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma (USAO). He is simultaneously completing his Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting at The University of Oklahoma. His multifaceted career spans conducting, teaching, and collaborative artistic creation across educational, church, theater, and community settings.

Dr. Smith earned his DMA in Conducting from The University of Oklahoma (2025), MM in Conducting from Messiah University (2020), and BA in Music from University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (2011). His academic journey has been shaped by mentorship from Yoon Soo Lim and Rachel Cornacchio at Messiah University.

His research interests focus on the intersection of music theory, philosophy, and pedagogy. Dr. Smith explores how musical practice connects to broader philosophical concepts, particularly examining virtue ethics in contemporary compositions. His work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications in music education and performance, emphasizing collaborative growth and experiential learning.

Dr. Smith's publications demonstrate a commitment to both scholarly analysis and historical documentation within music. His work spans philosophical examination of contemporary compositions and historical documentation of regional musical institutions, reflecting his dual commitment to theoretical exploration and community engagement through projects like the Lawton Philharmonic's 50th Anniversary.

• American Choral Directors Association
• Oklahoma Choral Directors Association
• National Association for Music Educators
• Oklahoma Music Educators Association
• National Association of Schools of Music

As an educator, Dr. Smith directs choral ensembles at USAO and teaches courses in music education, music history, aural skills, and conducting. He previously served as Director of Choirs for Marianapolis Preparatory School and Academy Director for the Summer Arts Academy of New England. His teaching philosophy centers on collective mentoring, contextual solutions, and practice that applies theory.

Dr. Smith also works as an animateur, creating innovative audience experiences through interdisciplinary approaches. His projects like 'Symphony of Retrospect' with the Lawton Philharmonic Orchestra demonstrate his commitment to connecting musical performance with community engagement and audience participation.