Contemporary Pianist Doug Smith at Spencer Theatre, Ruidoso, New Mexico

Captivating, breathtaking, a remarkable milestone-in many ways the legendary pianist/composer Doug Smith's sold out performance at the Spencer Theater in Alto, New Mexico was all these things and more. It was pure entertainment from the first note of "Song for Suns" to the final encore of the most important song he ever learned, "Amazing Grace." He captured every emotion that lives inside of me, as well as the hearts of everyone else in the audience. Doug's piano virtuosity had never been better, and his outlandish humor reminded me of a shortstop who could pitch a gunslinger that everyone in the west was pulling for. Doug owned the stage and made everyone in the audience appreciate the word "genius" as they rehashed a favorite song or story upon exiting the most beautiful auditorium this side of paradise.

One person I overheard had tears in her eyes as she left her seat, saying, "That was the most powerful 'Amazing Grace' I ever heard," and during intermission, I saw two gentlemen in the lobby laughing, slapping each other on the back as they agreed that "Take Me Out To The Ball Game" made them remember their younger days playing ball.

The night was all about emotions that touch that place that lives inside us; Doug was able to pull at our souls in both of his fifty minute sets, never letting us take our eyes off of the masterful hands that pounded out "Passion," "Linda," "Waitin' for Tom," "Swinney Blues," and the greatest rendition of "West Texas" I have ever witnessed. It was also a night for tributes as Doug bowed to two of his fallen heroes, Ray Charles, with his breathtaking version of "Georgia on My Mind," and Floyd Cramer, with his unforgettable rendering of "Last Date" that graciously connected to the audience. Smith also lauded George Gershwin's "Summertime," a tune that was recently included in the top ten of the 100 greatest movie tunes of all time. If you missed this performance, I'm sure there will be other chances, but that night at the Spencer was like no other; it was a night filled with bow ties and beautiful dresses, blue jeans and cowboy hats-it didn't matter who you were-Doug Smith was putting it all on the line for you. At least that's how I felt when I left The Spencer Theater that night; Doug Smith had put it all on the line just for me.

As Charles Centilli, Executive Director of The Spencer Theater, so eloquently put it,

"Doug Smith's talent, unique style, and genuine passion embraced the soul of each patron. His showmanship created a sense of comfort that spread throughout the hall. The audience gave two sincere standing ovations confirming their approval. As Smith left the stage, he thanked the piano; the two are unstoppable! Doug Smith breaks all molds for a pianist."