Composer. A major Dutch musician of the 1930s, tragically silenced by the Nazis. Smit was born in Amsterdam into a Jewish family, and studied at the Conservatory there. After graduating cum laude in 1924 he was accepted into the faculty as professor of harmony and composition, but dissatisfaction with academic life (and hostility to his early music) prompted him to seek a more stimulating atmosphere abroad. He lived in Paris from 1927 to 1934 and then in Brussels until he returned to his native city in 1937. During that period his music was performed by some of Europe's leading ensembles, especially the Concertgebouw Orchestra under conductors Pierre Monteux and Eduard van Beinum. Among his notable works are the ballet "Schemselnihar" (1929), the Sextet for piano and winds (1933), a Harp Concertino (1933), the Symphony in C (1936), a Piano Concerto (1937), Cello Concertino (1937), the Trio for clarinet, viola and piano (1938), the "Divertimento" for piano four hands (1940), and a Viola Concerto. Smit was initially influenced by jazz and his mature style remained tonal and audience-friendly while gaining in depth and polish. The frequent use of concerto form shows his interest in developing solo instrumental techniques, which he carried into his chamber music. He virtually ceased composing after Hitler's armies occupied Amsterdam in 1940 and barred Jewish artists from public activity. Only the excellent Flute Sonata (completed in 1943) and a movement from a string quartet emerged from his final years. On March 25, 1943, Smit and his wife were arrested by the SS and one month later transported to the death camp at Sobibor, where they perished in the gas chambers. Since 1996 an annual Leo Smit Festival, also known as the Uilenburger Concerts, has been held in Amsterdam. He is not to be confused with American composer Leo Smit (1921 - 1999).