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The G. Herbert Clarke Award

The Plymouth Philharmonic was founded in 1913 by Kingston violin teacher
G. Herbert Clarke. This award, named in his honor, celebrates the work of
individuals who have gone above and beyond to support the Phil and to help
make the orchestra what it is today. This award was presented on September
15, 2022, at the Phil’s Bravo Breakfast.

Scott C. Smith

Brand Manager and Independent Author

The Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra is honored to award the 2022 G. Herbert Clarke Award to Scott C. Smith,
writer, and long-time, award-winning news reporter.
Scott has been a stalwart supporter of the Phil for many years. Formerly senior editor and regional director
of multi-media with Gannett (previously GateHouse Media), Scott always made sure the Phil received strong
coverage in the newspaper and later, in the digital versions as well. Gannett is a media sponsor and as such, the
Phil advertised in the paper, but it was the extra value Scott provided that made all the difference. As editor, he
assigned regular engaging interviews with Steven Karidoyanes before every concert.
In addition, the paper went deeper into the organization with special series’ about how the organization
works like the award-winning “I am Phil” series written by Emily Clark. Scott made sure the Phil received extra
exposure. He went even further by running series and features highlighting the Phil’s education and community
programs, going beyond the concert hall to inform readers about the Phil’s value to the community. The post-
concert, full-page color photos in the paper were also a regular feature and audience members often remarked
about how they couldn’t wait to check out the paper to see if a picture of them made it in.
“I recognized Scott’s support of the arts since first meeting him in my earliest days with the Phil,” says Kim
Corben, Executive Director. “Scott loves of the arts – and the Phil in particular. His mission to promote live music
in our community was immediately apparent. He not only attends most of our concerts, but I also often see him
at other cultural events in town where there is music and art. It was so much more than a job to Scott. It was his
lifestyle. He truly loves and supports live events.”
Scott is currently brand manager for his wife Leigh’s company Featherstones LLC, marketing her line of wellness
accessories product line.

Scott is also an indie fiction author with two series of books out. The New England-based Peter MacAlister
Mystery series and his farcical, colorful, warm-action series, THE LGBT SUPERHEROES! Both are available on
Amazon.
Scott met and married his wife Leigh in their 60s. They have three grown children, one daughter-in-law, and
two grand-dogs. They are proud allies of the LGBTQ+ community, with close friends and family members of it.
In the true spirit of the G. Herbert Clarke award Scott goes above and beyond to support the Phil. Thank you,
Scott for all you do for our community.

PAGE 20 Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra