Paul J. Smith was the son of Joseph J. and Anna M. Smith, residents of Caldwell, Idaho. His father, Joseph J. Smith, was a renowned band director at the College of Idaho for many years, earning the prestigious title "The Father of Music" in the Boise Valley, thanks to his exceptional teaching skills and ability to instruct all musical instruments.
It is evident that Paul J. Smith inherited his father's remarkable talent and teaching abilities, as all but one of his four sons pursued successful careers as composers and musicians in Los Angeles, both before and after World War II. Paul J. Smith had an older brother, Jerome Smith, who, despite being a talented woodwind player, chose to pursue a career in electrical engineering in the 1930s and worked as a lead engineer for RCA for his entire career.
Paul J. Smith's two younger brothers, Arthur Smith and George W. Smith, both followed in their father's footsteps, becoming accomplished woodwind players and studio musicians. Arthur Smith was under contract with Universal Studios for many years until studio contracts were eliminated in the early 1960s. He continued to work in all major studios, including Disney, and remained active in the music industry for many years to come.
George W. Smith, the youngest brother, was employed for many years as the 1st chair clarinetist for Columbia Studios, a position he held until musicians' contracts were cancelled in the 1960s. He continued to work in both major studios, including Disney, as well as recording sessions with renowned vocal talents and jazz artists of the day. In his later years, George performed with the Disneyland Band in Anaheim, showcasing his talents in the Dixieland Band, Polka Band, and Main Street Saxophone Quartet on clarinet and alto saxophone.
The Smith family's impressive and unique achievements as musical talents from Caldwell, Idaho, serve as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and exceptional abilities.
