Viola Smith became the first female star of jazz drumming. When people called her the “female Gene Krupa,” she corrected them, "Krupa was the male Viola Smith." As the ranks of predominantly male big bands thinned out during the war, Ms. Smith published an editorial in DownBeat Magazine titled “Give Girl Musicians a Break!,” urging orchestras to hire talented female musicians who were eager to fill the slots of the absent players. Despite her impassioned argument, the big bands didn’t heed her c

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The Genius Of Viola Smith ✨ Viola Smith was hailed as the fastest female drummer of her time, breaking barriers when women were rarely seen behind a drum kit. Her talent, fiery personality, and innovative techniques not only built her legendary career but also paved the way for future drummers. She captivated audiences, challenged stereotypes, and earned her place as a true drumming legend. Click the link in the comments and join us as we dive into the genius of Viola Smith. #drumeo #violasmith

Here's Viola Smith in 1939! The drummer with the biggest heart, now 102-year-young Viola Smith joins us on Drum Talk TV! Watch our interview here: www.drumtalktv.com/portfolio/viola-smith/ In this interview, you’ll see a film of Viola from 1939 playing with Frances Carroll & The Coquettes; she talks about her 17-piece drum set, taking lessons from Billy Gladstone and owning one of his snares (He only made 40-50), spending time with Krupa, Bellson, Rich Webb, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra and ot

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Our spotlight today goes to drummer and innovator Viola Smith who lived to be 108 (She was born in 1912 and died in 2020). She is best known for her work in orchestras, swing bands, and popular music from the 1920s until 1975 and was one of the first professional female drummers. She had seven sisters and two brothers. All learned piano first, but only the girls were to be in an "all-girl" orchestra conceived by their father. She chose the drums because the other instruments she liked were alrea

Next weekend's performances feature Principal Viola Joan DerHovsepian and Principal Cello Brinton Averil Smith in Strauss's Don Quixote. Hear from them as they share insights about this rich storytelling masterpiece as well as other works on the program, then head to the link in our bio to get your tickets! | Houston Symphony