When Leslie was a toddler, his mother noticed that he loved music and would play melodies on the neighbor’s piano. At around five or six years old, he began formal musical training by learning piano, clarinet, and bongo drums. A family friend gifted him a trumpet at the age of 11. He was inspired by jazz legend Benny Carter. When Leslie was 15, he decided that he wanted a career as a professional musician. He joined a local youth group. He learned music composition, arranging and composition skills through his involvement with the youth band. After graduating from Los Angeles High school, he attended L.A. Valley College. He later transferred to California State University at Los Angeles and earned a Bachelor’s degree. A. in Music Education. Leslie started his professional music career in college by writing and playing for local radio stations.
