Oral history interview with Lawrence Leighton Smith, 1980 May 12

This oral history interview with Lawrence Leighton Smith was conducted by Linda S. Dodds on May 12, 1980, in Portland, Oregon, as part of the Oregon Historical Society Research Library's oral history program. At the time of the interview, Dodds' name was Linda S. Brody.

In this interview, Smith discusses his family background and early life in Portland, particularly his early musical education. He talks about his experience studying music at Portland State University, with Ariel Rubstein, and at Mannes College of Music. He describes serving as assistant conductor at the Metropolitan Opera from 1964 to 1967. He then speaks at length about his career as conductor and music director for the Oregon Symphony in Portland from 1973 to 1980, including working with musicians, developing programs, and playing to Oregon audiences. He closes the interview by talking about his hopes for his next career as music director for the San Antonio Symphony.