Mercedes Smith

Mercedes Smith has served as the Principal Flutist of the Utah Symphony since 2012, having previously held the same position with the Houston Grand Opera and Houston Ballet Orchestras.

Mercedes’ musical journey began early, being accepted as a scholarship student at the Manhattan School of Music at 16, under the tutelage of Michael Parloff and Jeanne Baxtresser. Awarded First Prize in the National Flute Association’s 2010 Young Artist Competition, Mercedes has performed in Carnegie Hall, throughout Europe and Asia, and at renowned music festivals including the Grand Teton Music Festival, Tanglewood, Music Academy of the West, Verbier Festival Orchestra, and Marlboro.

Never one to idle, Mercedes turned the pandemic into an opportunity, obtaining a real estate license and earning an M.B.A. from the University of Utah. Her latest endeavor is the creation of Blackstrad, a line of concert attire designed for the modern musician. She resides in Salt Lake City with her husband, violinist David Porter, and three very silly dogs.