Dawn Holman-Smith

I like to sing songs that are familiar to my audience that can trigger happy memories.

Singer, songwriter, vocal director, and Praise & Worship Leader Dawn Holman-Smith, also known as “Dawnsai,” has spent decades using her musical gifts to inspire, encourage, and lead others through gospel and Christian music.

Music and ministry have been a part of Dawn’s life from an early age. Raised with a strong musical foundation, she was introduced to music and music education by her mother, a music instructor. In 1981, at just eight years old, Dawn became a student of Elbernita “Twinkie” Clark of the legendary Clark Sisters, receiving training as both a vocalist and musician. By age 12, she was traveling and performing alongside gospel greats including Albertina Walker, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, and the O’Neal Twins.

In 1988, under the mentorship of Professor Iris Stevenson, Dawn became a director and trainer for international students with a passion for gospel music. During her four years in this role, she helped develop and train hundreds of young singers and musicians for performances around the world. She later continued her development under the leadership of renowned Praise & Worship pioneer Dr. Judith Christie McAllister, strengthening not only her vocal abilities but also her understanding of worship leadership and ministry through music.

Throughout her musical journey, Dawn has had opportunities to sing background and work with respected Christian and gospel artists, including Crystal Lewis, Daryl Coley, Yolanda Adams, and Carman. In 2000, after returning from studying overseas, she partnered with Narrow Street Music Production on the compilation project *Phase One*, showcasing her abilities as both a vocalist and songwriter.

Dawn’s ministry has also extended internationally. She has traveled around the world singing, directing, and providing vocal training to students while sharing her love for gospel and worship music. Her work in Japan became a particularly meaningful part of her musical journey, where she developed a following and received opportunities to return and perform.

Today, Dawn’s heart is centered on **Praise & Worship**. She believes worship is not about performing before an audience, but about serving God and helping create an atmosphere where people can freely enter His presence. Her years of experience as a vocalist, musician, songwriter, director, trainer, and performer have shaped her into a worship leader who values preparation and musical excellence while remaining sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Whether leading an energetic moment of praise or an intimate moment of worship, Dawn’s desire is to minister authentically and help draw hearts closer to Christ. She believes every gift, experience, and opportunity God has given her has prepared her for one purpose: **to glorify Him, serve His people, and use her voice to help lead others into His presence.**

Need sound system with input/output for keyboard and microphone.