Francis Smith

Francis Smith’s musical journey began at a young age when he first started playing the piano. At age 11 he turned his focus to studying the clarinet and saxophone, of which the latter would become his principal instrument. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Performance from the University of Toronto, and a Bachelor of Education from Nipissing University. Francis has taught Instrumental Music at both the elementary and secondary levels with the Halton District School Board since 2015, and is a member of the Ontario College of Teachers and the Ontario Music Educators’ Association.

In 2007, Francis joined the Burlington Teen Tour Band’s instructional staff in the role of Woodwind Instructor. At the end of 2018, following the retirement of Sir William Hughes, he was appointed to the position of Interim Musical Director. In March 2020, Francis was formally named as the band’s new Musical Director and Associate Director of Bands and Music Services for the City of Burlington’s Recreation, Community, and Culture department.

Francis currently lives in Burlington with his wife, two young children, and longhaired miniature dachshunds named Wynton and Quincy. Outside of his musical endeavours he maintains an active lifestyle that includes strength training, scuba diving, and a passion for really great coffee.