Following the successful culmination of his high school studies, Smith embarked on a journey to nurture his fervent passion for music by matriculating at The College of Idaho, a prestigious institution of higher learning, from the year 1923 to 1925. During his tenure at this esteemed academic establishment, he diligently devoted himself to refining his skills in the intricacies of music theory and composition, ultimately showcasing his exceptional aptitude in these areas. This remarkable display of talent and dedication did not go unnoticed, as he was subsequently awarded a highly coveted and prestigious scholarship to pursue further studies at the renowned Julliard School, a globally recognized institution of music education.
Smith's extraordinary musical prowess and expertise culminated in a highly successful and illustrious career at the renowned Disney organization, where he effortlessly transitioned into a prominent composer role, meticulously crafting an impressive array of musical scores for a diverse range of films, including both animated and live-action productions, as well as television shows, showcasing his remarkable versatility and adaptability.
Notably, Smith's professional endeavors extended beyond his primary role at Disney, as he made a notable appearance as a studio employee in the orchestra for the iconic film Fantasia, a cinematic masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Furthermore, he demonstrated his remarkable compositional skills by crafting the scores for multiple episodes of the renowned True-Life Adventures series, a groundbreaking and influential educational program that has left a lasting impact on American educational content, shaping the minds of countless individuals and setting a high standard for future generations.
Notable throughout his extensive professional journey, Smith fostered a collaborative creative environment, partnering with Hazel "Gil" George, with whom he co-authored the iconic song title for the esteemed production, The Light in the Forest, in tandem with Lawrence Edward Watkin, a renowned figure in the industry.
Additionally, Smith made significant contributions to the realm of music composition, crafting stock music for the popular Blondie series during the late 1940s and early 1950s, a testament to his versatility and creative prowess.
Smith's impressive musical talent was recognized with a prestigious Academy Award for Best Original Score, a coveted honor he shared with esteemed colleagues Leigh Harline and Ned Washington. This notable achievement was the culmination of his extraordinary work on the beloved film Pinocchio, a milestone moment in his illustrious career that stands out as his sole Oscar win to date.
