Erma Smith’s 95th Birthday Celebration

Civic leader and arts enthusiast Erma Smith celebrated her 95th birthday with family and friends Saturday, November 16, at Redwood Canyon. Mrs. Smith was serenaded by her beloved Castro Valley High School Madrigals, the school’s premier chamber choir. 

Erma and Owen Smith have been champions of the arts in Castro Valley for decades. The Smith Theater in the Castro Valley Center for the Arts (CFA) is named in their honor.  Mrs. Smith has underwritten the costs of choral accompanists for the choral program for over 20 years.  In addition, she started a scholarship program providing students with private vocal and instrumental lessons during the summer.  Mrs. Smith was one of the co-founders of the Castro Valley Arts Foundation.

Director Laryssa Sadoway calls Mrs. Smith “a Castro Valley legend... Her generosity has paved the way for generations of students to be able to train with stellar resources and professional support.  Because of her support, students leave CVUSD performing arts programs with an experience that inspires and propels many to further pursue music in college and beyond.” 

The Madrigals is an Honors ensemble who serve as musical ambassadors for Castro Valley High School.  Earlier this year, they placed first in the Northern California Golden State Choral Competition.  When asked about gathering for a singing engagement on their day off, Madrigal senior Allie Otteson shared, “It was an honor to meet the woman who helped build my second home, the CFA.” 

Ash Ahmad, one of the students who received a vocal scholarship from Mrs. Smith, shared, “With gratitude, no number of words could express how thankful I am for her gifts to our program.”

The public can attend the CVHS Winter Choral Concert December 6 at 7pm and December 7 at 2pm. Tickets: cvcfa.com/events