Cyd Smith

 “HartSmith’s unique combination of musical dexterity, playfulness, and profound musicianship is a joy to behold. They have clearly dedicated their lives to the study and celebration of classic American jazz, and they perform it with stunning finesse and grace.”
-Jeff Pevar, lead guitarist with Crosby, Stills, and Nash

HartSmith is Bil Leonhart (7-string guitar) and Cyd Smith (guitar/vocals). Together they have formed a musical partnership to celebrate their love of the Great American Songbook--the best of the jazz standards written in the first half of the 20th century.

Bil’s inspired improvisational approach to the 7-string guitar has prompted internationally famous jazz guitarist Howard Alden to describe Bil as “one of the nation’s finest 7-string jazz guitarists.” New York guitar legend Gene Bertoncini describes Bil’s playing as “miraculous, spontaneous, harmonic wizardry.”

With her velvety vocals and irresistibly swinging rhythm guitar, Cyd is a perfect complement to Bil’s sparkling guitar playing. Seattle jazz critic Paul de Barros calls her “one of the best singers the Northwest can call its own.”