Fahlon Smith is a multi-instrumentalist, music performer and teacher. Exploring all genres, she focuses on playing the Zimbabwean marimba, viola, and voice; sometimes at the same time.
Fahlon composes and performs with ensembles such as Kumbana Marimba, Westerly, and others with whom she has played at music festivals and events across North America such as Squamish Valley Music Festival, Vancouver Island Music Festival, Rock the Peach, Islands Folk Fest, Harmony Arts Festival, and others.
Her teaching style is based on developing enough technique and practical knowledge to reach the students’ individual goals. She draws from multiple teaching methods to create a learning experience that best suits the student. The most important part of playing music is that it is fun. So, by learning what the student enjoys, her goal is to create a mutually enjoyable learning environment that can be used as a foundation for further musical exploration.
Fahlon has taught group, private, and school music classes for over 8 years. Fahlon was the youth co-ordinator for the 2012 Striking Accord Festival which involved performances and workshops, co-ordinator and instructor of the 2013 Artful Kids Summer Camp, instructor of the Afro-Mumanzi World Music Camp in 2009-2012, and returned there as the Artistic Director in 2015 and 2016. She has been the booking manager of multiple bands, and has played with ensembles such as the Galiano Ensemble and the Nanaimo Chamber Orchestra.
Fahlon has won second and third prizes in the U.Vic Bach Competition in 2014, 2015, and 2016. She is the recipient of multiple scholarships and bursaries, and was nominated for the 2012 ‘Youth of the Year’ Glassie Award. In February 2016, Fahlon played in concert with the world renowned violist Garth Knox.
Fahlon has just completed her Bachelor of Music Performance at the University of Victoria. This fall, she will be teaching music, recording an album with Westerly Sisters, and playing with orchestras across BC.
Fahlon will be teaching at P.A.M.A. on Tuesdays. Call 778-426-1800 or email to reserve a spot.
Bach suite #1.mp3
Bach Suite #3.mp3