Composer Mark Smythe Dies at 53 Following Medical Emergency on Hike
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Composer Mark Smythe died Saturday at age 53 after a medical emergency on a hiking trail near Los Angeles. The L.A. Coroner's office reported the cause was cardiovascular disease. Smythe, a New Zealand-born composer based in L.A., was nominated for industry awards in 2023 and was an educator and active composer.
Facts First
- Mark Smythe died at 53 following a medical emergency on the Mount Wilson hiking trail.
- The L.A. Coroner's office reported the cause of death was cardiovascular disease.
- Smythe was nominated for an SCL Award and a World Soundtrack Award in 2023 for his score for 'The Reef: Stalked'.
- He taught media composition at Cal State University, Northridge and served as Department Head of Composing for Visual Media at Los Angeles College of Music.
- Smythe was selected as a Composer Fellow for the 2024 Choral Arts Initiative PREMIERE|Project Festival, which premiered his work 'Song of the Sea – Part I'.
What Happened
Mark Smythe, a composer, died on Saturday at age 53 following a medical emergency on the Mount Wilson hiking trail near Los Angeles. The L.A. Coroner's office reported the cause of death was cardiovascular disease. Sierra Madre Search and Rescue issued a statement extending condolences and thanking those who assisted during the incident.
Why this Matters to You
If you are a student, colleague, or admirer of Smythe's work in film, television, or music education, his passing represents a loss in those creative communities. His recent fellowship and upcoming festival premiere suggest his active contributions to new music may now be concluded.
What's Next
The premiere of Smythe's 'Song of the Sea – Part I' for choir and electric guitar, which was scheduled as part of the 2024 Choral Arts Initiative PREMIERE|Project Festival where he was a Composer Fellow, may proceed as a tribute to his work.