Beth Smulow

Bethany grew up surrounded by music and musicians of all kinds and was very lucky to be allowed to sing, play trombone, and listen to music at all times without ever being told to stop or be quiet.

Bethany started her professional musical training at the University of Northern Colorado in 2002. There, she studied the Buddy Baker Method with Trombone Professor Emeritus Nat Wickham, a student of the esteemed trombone pedagogue and fellow former Professor Emeritus Edwin “Buddy” Baker. Bethany also had the honor of studying jazz and jazz history with the amazing and talented pop, jazz, and country drummer Jim White (Maynard Ferguson, Alison Krauss, Dick Oatts, Willie Nelson, and many others). She graduated with a bachelor's degree in classical music in 2007.

From 2013 to 2023, Bethany worked with the established and well-respected Higher Ground Band—a premier cover/party band in the Miami area for over 20 years—at many famous Miami landmarks and venues including Fontainebleau, The Biltmore, The Breakers, and more.

Bethany continues to work the Miami music scene, including playing at the Miami Music Festival. She has also worked with many community bands, big bands, concert bands, and one-offs with artists and guest artists including Jennifer Hudson and Bruce Springsteen.