Charles J. Smith
Born:
Connection to Illinois: Smith grew up on the south side of Chicago. Biography: Like Temple Grandin, the world-renowned autism specialist, Dr. Charles Smith is keenly aware of his autism and can articulate some of his unique and sometimes startling insights about his own thoughts and behaviors. Layered into his journey, Charles explores his strengths and shortcomings with his studies, his intense fears of fireworks, and his constant quest for love and acceptance from friends and competitors in the various worlds he has occupied therapeutic public school, academia, the international piano circuit, competitive ballroom dancing, and the Chicago avant-garde 'DIY' music scene. Smith spent nearly ten years, working on his doctorate, traveling the U.S. and Europe to attend music conferences and play piano among several groups of accomplished musicians. This was all due to the persistence of two talented teachers and a special woman who believed in his ability to succeed. While few of his early dreams have yet to be realized, Charles Smith has lived an active life in Chicago as a prolific composer, musician, performer, and accompanist.
Awards:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmXl9eFXTnc
Selected Titles
The 88 Keys That Opened Doors ISBN: B097CL9J5B OCLC: Independently Published 2021 |