Praxton Z. Smith is a violinist, singer, songwriter, and composer from Cleveland, Ohio.

Praxton began playing violin at age 5. Trained in the Suzuki method, Praxton developed a keen ear for pitch, memorization, and sonicality at an early age. She grew up listening to composers like Pagannini and Bartók, as well as violinists Miri Ben-Ari, Midori Got?, and Regina Carter. She began composing music and writing songs in grade school, participating in composition classes and competitions. She holds a bachelor's degree from Berklee College of Music in writing for TV & new media, violin performance, and music business.

Praxton has shared the stage with Solange Knowles, Bootsy Collins, Brendan Urie, Terrance Blanchard, Slash, Joan Jett, and more. She has performed at iconic venues including the Hollywood Bowl, Boston Symphony Hall, and others. She currently works as a freelance violinist, commercial/film composer, and performer under her stage name, Zxari.