Kelvin Leslie's Biography

Kelvin Leslie was educated at Grove Park Boy's Grammar School, Wrexham and University College, Cardiff. At University, he studied for a B.Mus., specialising in composition and an M.A. in the analysis of 20th century music. He studied piano with Martin Jones. On the completion of his M.A. he spent a period as pianist with the New Arts Consort for which he composed a degree score entitled "Spot the Ball". A year's study for a PGCE led to several years teaching music in Cheshire schools, including a period as Head of Music at Henbury High School, Macclesfield. In addition, he has worked as a part time lecturer for Liverpool University, including two day schools with Michael Kennedy on the music of Mahler and Richard Strauss. He has a strong interest in academic music and analysis.

Kelvin has a particular interest in musical theatre. In collaboration with Chris Spence, he has composed a two-act musical, "Humbug", based on Dickens's "A Christmas Carol" and has worked as musical director on a number of shows. Since 1995 he has worked as a freelance piano teacher and lecturer. In addition he examines for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, undertaking tours in the UK, Ireland, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Uganda.

Recent compositions have included piano works and choral pieces. He is currently working on a string orchestral piece for the Opus One Chamber Orchestra. Kelvin has performed recitals with Richard Turner (Clarinet) at Chester Town Hall and the Royal Northern College of Music and with Alison Balsom (Trumpet) at Salford University. He writes superb programme-notes for concert goers! He has adjudicated at the Chester Music Festival on two occasions.

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