On February 19, 2023, Bay Area-based musician Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith took center stage as one of the most inventive electronic composers and performers of her generation. Known for her experimental approach to synthesizer music, Smith has carved a unique space in the global music scene, blending ambient soundscapes, intricate melodies, and electronic textures that defy genre classifications.
Born and raised in Orcas Island, Washington, Smith moved to the Bay Area in her early twenties, where she immersed herself in the vibrant local music scene. It was here that her career began to take off, and she has since released critically acclaimed albums like EARS and The Mosaic of Transformation. Her music blends the organic with the synthetic, incorporating her background in both classical music and electronic sound design. Smith’s mastery of modular synthesis is evident in her work, creating intricate layers of sound that convey emotion and texture in ways traditional instruments cannot.
Smith sat down for an interview in her Oakland studio to discuss her creative journey. “Growing up on an island surrounded by nature, I’ve always been inspired by the rhythms and sounds of the environment,” she explained. “Modular synthesis allows me to express what I feel and hear in a way that feels both personal and universal. It’s like a conversation with the machine, constantly evolving and reacting.”
Her latest project, Mindfulness Through Sound, which debuted in early 2023, takes her work to new heights by exploring the intersection between music and mindfulness. The project aims to use sound to induce a meditative state in listeners, promoting self-reflection and inner peace. “Sound has the ability to evoke deep emotional responses,” Smith shared. “By creating a space of sonic relaxation, I hope people can reconnect with themselves in a way that goes beyond just listening.”
Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith’s work is not just about sound—it’s about creating an immersive experience that invites the listener to feel and think. Her music is layered with complex themes of personal transformation, nature, and technology. Critics have lauded her ability to break new ground in electronic music while maintaining an intimate, human connection to her audience.
In addition to her solo work, Smith is an active collaborator within the Bay Area’s music community, contributing to other projects and engaging with local musicians. She is also a vocal advocate for greater representation of women in the electronic music industry, regularly mentoring young female artists and producers. “It’s important to create a space where women feel empowered to make music, experiment, and be taken seriously,” she said.
As the Bay Area continues to be a hub for innovative music, Smith’s role in shaping the future of electronic music is undeniable. With her ability to blend technology and emotional depth, Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith remains a crucial voice in the evolution of modern music, and her future projects are highly anticipated by both fans and fellow artists alike.
