Who Is Caroline Smedvig? The Woman Married to James Taylor

Caroline Smedvig is best known as the wife of legendary singer-songwriter James Taylor, but her story goes far beyond being a famous musician’s partner. She built a successful career in arts management and has lived a life filled with music, culture, and family. While she prefers to stay out of the spotlight, her journey is both interesting and inspiring.
Detailed Bio Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kim Caroline Smedvig |
| Date of Birth | May 31, 1957 |
| Age | 67 years old (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Albany, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Smith College (Bachelor’s degree) |
| Profession | Former Arts Administrator, Director of Public Relations and Marketing |
| Known For | Marriage to James Taylor, Career at Boston Symphony Orchestra |
| Spouse | James Taylor (married 2001) |
| Previous Marriage | Rolf Thorstein Smedvig (1980-2001) |
| Children | Twin sons: Rufus and Henry Taylor (born 2001) |
Early Life and Education
Caroline Smedvig was born in Albany, New York, in 1957. She grew up in a family that valued education and culture. From a young age, she showed interest in the arts and music world.
She attended Smith College, a well-respected women’s college in Massachusetts. There, she studied and developed skills that would later help her in her career. Smith College is known for producing strong, independent women, and Caroline was no exception.
Professional Career
Caroline’s career in arts management began after she finished college. She joined the Boston Symphony Orchestra, one of the most famous orchestras in the United States. This was not just any job – it was a position that required skill, dedication, and a deep understanding of classical music.
At the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Caroline worked her way up to become the Director of Public Relations and Marketing. In this role, she was responsible for promoting concerts, managing the orchestra’s public image, and connecting with audiences. Her work helped bring classical music to more people and made the orchestra more accessible to the community.
Caroline spent many years in this position and became well-respected in the classical music world. People who worked with her remember her as professional, hardworking, and passionate about the arts.
First Marriage
Before meeting James Taylor, Caroline was married to Rolf Thorstein Smedvig. Rolf was a classical musician who played the trumpet in the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The couple married in 1980 and shared a love for music.
They were together for over twenty years, but their marriage eventually ended in 2001. The divorce was handled privately, and both moved on with their lives. Caroline kept the surname Smedvig even after the divorce.
Meeting James Taylor
Caroline met James Taylor while she was working at the Boston Symphony Orchestra. James, already a famous musician known for hits like “Fire and Rain” and “You’ve Got a Friend,” was performing with the orchestra.
Their meeting happened in the 1990s, and they became friends first. Both were going through difficult times in their personal lives. James had been married twice before and was raising his children from previous marriages. Caroline was ending her first marriage.
Their friendship slowly turned into romance. They understood each other well because they both loved music and valued family. James has said in interviews that Caroline brought stability and happiness into his life.
Marriage and Family Life

James Taylor and Caroline Smedvig got married on February 18, 2001, at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Boston. It was James’s third marriage and Caroline’s second. The wedding was a private ceremony with close friends and family members.
Later that same year, Caroline gave birth to twin boys, Rufus and Henry, on April 8, 2001. The twins were born through in vitro fertilization, a medical procedure that helps couples have children. Caroline was 43 years old when she became a mother.
James Taylor also has two children from his previous marriage to singer Carly Simon – Sally and Ben Taylor, who are both musicians. Caroline became a stepmother to them and has maintained a good relationship with James’s extended family.
The family lives a quiet life, splitting their time between their homes in Massachusetts and other locations. They value privacy and try to keep their children away from too much media attention.
Life Away from the Spotlight
Unlike many celebrity spouses, Caroline chooses to live a private life. She rarely gives interviews or appears at public events unless she’s supporting her husband. When she does appear with James at concerts or award ceremonies, she remains gracious but keeps a low profile.
Caroline left her position at the Boston Symphony Orchestra after getting married and having children. She focused on raising her twin sons and supporting James’s music career. However, she never lost her love for the arts and continues to be involved in cultural activities privately.
Her Role in James Taylor’s Life
James Taylor has spoken warmly about Caroline in several interviews. He credits her with bringing peace and happiness to his life during a time when he needed it most. After struggling with past relationships and personal challenges, James found stability with Caroline.
She supports his music career by attending his concerts and helping him maintain balance between work and family life. James often thanks Caroline during his performances, showing his appreciation for her support.
Current Life
Today, Caroline Smedvig Taylor lives a comfortable life with her family. Her twin sons, Rufus and Henry, are now young adults. The family continues to value privacy while enjoying their time together.
Caroline remains connected to the arts world, though in a more private way than before. She and James support various charitable causes and continue to enjoy music together.
Conclusion
Caroline Smedvig’s life story shows that there’s always more to a person than their famous connections. She built a respected career in classical music management before becoming James Taylor’s wife. As a mother, stepmother, and partner, she has created a loving family while maintaining her dignity and privacy. Her journey reminds us that success comes in many forms – whether through professional achievements, building strong relationships, or simply living life with grace and purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How old is Caroline Smedvig?
Caroline Smedvig was born on May 31, 1957, making her 67 years old as of 2025.
2. How did Caroline Smedvig meet James Taylor?
They met while Caroline was working at the Boston Symphony Orchestra, where James was performing in the 1990s.
3. Does Caroline Smedvig have children?
Yes, she has twin sons named Rufus and Henry, born in April 2001. She’s also stepmother to James Taylor’s children from his previous marriage.
4. What did Caroline Smedvig do before marriage?
She worked as Director of Public Relations and Marketing at the Boston Symphony Orchestra for many years.
5. Is this James Taylor’s first marriage?
No, this is James Taylor’s third marriage. He was previously married to Carly Simon and Kathryn Walker.
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