‘Cultural Bridge’ from Wildwood to Europe

By Gia Gallone
Milla Smith is well known in our area as a performing pianist and organist. She often plays for charity, including for Cape Regional Medical Center, Catholic Charities, Maud Abrams Elementary School and more. Last summer, she played 20 charitable concerts to raise money for the restoration of a historical organ at St. Simeon’s by the Sea Episcopal Church in North Wildwood.
At the beginning of October, Milla held a two-week concert tour in Europe, having the pleasure of visiting the beautiful cities of Prague, Svárov, Karlovy Vary and Dresden. At the time of her visit, the J.S. Bach Music Festival was happening in Czech Republic with concerts on different stages. Milla had the honor of playing three piano and five organ concerts, and had a very busy schedule with rehearsals or concerts almost every day. Her program, “Music of My Soul” in memory of her husband, Clayton Smith, first premiered here in Cape May County in February 2016.
Milla arrived to Prague on her birthday, Oct. 4, and the next day had a performance in Chrystal Hall in the Cultural Center, and later in the Art Gallery. “Prague is not only one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but also the music capital of the world. It was my honor to present to the public my piano and organ programs on the different stages there,” Milla said.
Milla shared that the beautiful churches impressed her the most, mentioning St. Luka in Svárov dating back to the 12th century and housing a unique 17th century organ, Kostel St. Vojtecha dating back to the 16th century and having an organ with pipes placed in the shape of sun, and St. Matthew church dating back to the 10th century and having a special energy and spirit. Another thing that impressed Milla was the Europeans’ passion about their history, and how they work hard to take care of their historical buildings and musical instruments.
As an American pianist and organist, and a member of the American Guild of Organists, Milla definitely caught the attention of the public in Europe. The Europeans are very familiar with classical music, but are not spoiled with many American classical musical performances. Therefore, Milla ended up with a large following. “I had big audiences for every one of my concerts,” Milla said. “Listeners and press mentioned that my performances were very emotional, touching and impressive. I even had a group of listeners from my first concert follow me to all of my other ones. After the concerts, many people thanked me and asked questions not only about my music, but also about my life in America.”
While in Europe, Milla also attended a meeting with publishers for her book “My American Happiness.” Additionally, she met the famous movie producer Martin Mahdal. He was so impressed by her life story that he filmed her and her concerts during her trip for a documentary movie, “Love and Music.”
Milla’s eventful trip also included the recording of her album, “Music of My Soul.” She had the pleasure of recording at the famous “Faust” Recording Studio in Prague, where many famous musicians such as Lady Gaga and Il Divo have recorded albums. She was given the opportunity to have a “first shot” recording, a very popular recording style that gives the impression of a live concert, but isn’t a “technical miracle.” Milla shared that “Faust” Studio had a Steinway vintage grand piano from 1917 which gave quite the unique sound to her music. She would like to thank the owner of “Faust” Studio, Richard Mader, for his hospitality and making her feel at home, as well as the young but very talented sound engineer, Gasper Santl.
“My tour was not only my biggest pleasure, but also an unforgettable and very interesting experience,” Milla said.
Milla will hold a mini presentation of her album “Music of My Soul” on Saturday, Nov. 5 at 4 p.m. at 116 Heather Rd., Wildwood Crest. Milla will present her album, play live music, share about her trip, show photos and provide refreshments. A bigger, official presentation for both her album and her documentary movie will be held later in November.