Pianist Willie "the Lion" Smith (William Bertholoff) also composed and sang. An early practitioner of the stride style of piano playing, Smith influenced many jazz pianists, including Fats Waller and Duke Ellington. Smith's early work included sessions with Mamie Smith. He became a soloist in his later years.
Echoes by himself, Willie "the Lion" Smith
John Falter
pencil and tempera paint on colored paper, 1971
Donor: John P. Falter Collection
10,645-3599
Willie "the Lion" Smith
John Falter
lithograph, from the "Jazz from Life" series, 1971
Falter has included Smith's hands in the print version, adding a small sense of movement.
Donor: Cliff's Notes, Inc.
10704-19
