Josh Smitley
Tenor, Alto, and Soprano Sax, Flute, and Clarinet
Born and raised in San Diego, Josh has been playing the saxophone since he was a freshman in high
school. Prior to picking up the sax, Josh began his musical journey taking piano lessons at the age of 8 as
well as learning the clarinet at age 10. He then went on to study music at San Diego Mesa College and
San Diego State University, receiving his Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Performance in 2015.
Josh has been performing professionally around San Diego for 10+ years. He has performed with
renowned artists such as Eric Marienthal, the late Bill Watrous, John Daversa, as well as the
internationally acclaimed Jamaican vocalist, Ken Boothe. He has also performed with local legends such
as Christopher Hollyday, Gilbert Castellanos, and Carlos “Charlie” Chávez. Besides being a part of the Ira
B. Liss Big Band Jazz Machine, Josh currently plays with The Jazz Katz Orchestra, Legacy Big Band, Full
Strength Funk Band, as well as others.