Hey folks, it's Joe. I'm taking this week off, so I'm replaying one of my favorite episodes featuring Viola Smith.

Viola and I spoke in 2017, and she passed away in October of 2020 at the age of 107.

We'll be back next week with a new episode.

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Welcome to the Trap Set, where each week we explore the lives of drummers.

I want to play something for you.

I'd like you to meet our very charming little drummer, Viola Smith.

You're hearing Snake, by the Coquettes, featuring my guest, Viola Smith on drums.

Born in 1912 in Wisconsin, Viola began drumming at age 12 and turned professional soon after,

first with her family orchestra, the Smith Sisters, and later with the coquettes and Phil Spitalny's Hour of Charm orchestra. Over the course of her 50-year career,

Viola studied with legendary instructor Billy Gladstone, attended Juilliard, played jazz on 52nd Street

during World War II, drummed on Broadway for the original

production of Cabaret and performed at the inauguration of President Truman. An innovator far ahead

of her time, Vye played a visually striking 15-piece kit, framed by two large tom-toms mounted

high.

In an era when female musicians were often marketed as novelty acts,

Vye appeared on the covers of Variety and Billboard,

and also penned an influential article for Downbeat,

advocating for female musicians.

Nearly 105 years old, Viola resides with peacemakers, a faith-based community in Southern California. I spoke to her at her home. And now my conversation with Viola Smith.

...