Movement & Music Profiles: W.O. Smith Music School

While Nashville is known as Music City, it is a variety of performing and visual arts that truly bring character to Nashville. This year we profiled just some of the incredible organizations dedicated to music and movement that elevate the city.

Since their inception, these organizations have helped Nashville’s light shine brighter and to bring arts to a greater section of the community. Step inside as we talk history, legacy and the future with some of Nashville’s institutions of music and movement.

It would not be Music City if music was not made available to everyone. For the past 40 years, W.O. Smith Music School has orchestrated opportunities for children to experience musical education and a safe and welcoming community. 

The school’s founder and namesake, William Oscar Smith, was a gifted jazz musician. After spending time in Nashville, Smith noticed the lack of opportunity for low-income children to learn music. With the help of local volunteers and partners, he was able to open the W.O. Smith Music School in 1984. For just 50 cents, a student was given a private lesson, access to instruments, sheet music and a place to go after school. To this day, lessons still only cost 50 cents. 

It is no secret that Nashville is abundant with musical talent. Thankfully, many of these music lovers care about sharing their passions and knowledge. In fact, the school’s instructors are all volunteers, ranging from professionals to enthusiasts. Their generosity allows the school to allocate funds to their state-of-the-art building, instruments, equipment and programming. 

Jonah Rabinowitz — who has been with the school for 30 years — is currently at the helm, and his longevity is a testament to his dedication and love for what he does. One of Jonah’s best and most successful qualities is that he listens, and this allows Jonah and his faculty to really hear what it is the students want. Their ever-changing needs help guide the programming offered at W.O Smith Music School. Just like jazz music, the ability to improvise is a key element of the organization. 

In an industry that often harps on perfection, it is refreshing to know that the mission at this school is not about achieving excellence, nor is it about “good” or “bad” music. Jonah explains that it’s about “honoring the creation of music.” He urges the students to discover their individuality and to simply enjoy the process.

The future for W.O. Smith Music School is a harmonious blend of traditional and modern musical expression: From DJ lessons and audio engineering to choir and steel drum bands, the school offers a truly eclectic education. Each year, the staff eagerly anticipates the students’ fresh ideas and aspirations. One thing is certain; W.O. Smith Music School will continue to think outside the music box and evolve — for 50 cents and the love of music.