Biography
Though composition never ranked among his notable strengths, Smart earned recognition throughout England as a skilled musician with an exceptional command of the keyboard. Both organ and harpsichord showcased his technical command, while his leadership of ensembles established him as a prominent director of music. The extensive archive he assembled—encompassing scores, annotations, and concert programs—continues to supply valuable documentation for music historians. When directing performances, Smart remained seated at the organ, piano, or harpsichord rather than standing on a podium, yet his authority and musicianship commanded widespread respect. Engagements poured in from across Britain, leading him to preside over festivals in Liverpool, Cambridge, Dublin, Norwich, Newcastle upon Tyne, London, and Bath. Extensive journeys across the continent brought encounters with Beethoven, Weber, Haydn, and Mendelssohn at separate times. Among his most significant achievements were the first performances he led of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony and Mendelssohn’s oratorio St. Paul. Aspiring singers sought his instruction because he had mastered the authentic style required for Handel’s arias; two of the most celebrated pupils who studied with him were Jenny Lind and Henriette Sontag.