Cellist Emily Austin Smith Premieres New Solo Piece in Video

Commissioned by the Florida State Music Teachers Association, Lee’s new work for solo cello, A certain slant of light, was premiered online as a video performance by his wife, cellist Emily Austin Smith, during a general session of the FSMTA annual conference. After his initial nomination for the award, Lee was selected as the FSMTA 2020 Commissioned Composer upon submitting a portfolio of compositions. Following the premiere, the commissioned work will be considered for recognition at the national level. A panel of composers will evaluate states’ commissioned compositions in order to select the MTNA Distinguished Composer of the Year.