Henry Leslie

Leslie studied the cello with Charles Lucas and became a conductor, participant and founder of many musical asociations. His own a cappella ensemble was initially heard in 1856 winning first prize in a Paris Exhibition of 1878. As a conductor Leslie's concerts were characterized by their plethora of English choral pieces. Among other positions which Leslie held were the principal of the National College of Music, the founder of the Guild of Amateur Musicians, and the founder of the Oswestry School of Music as well as its Festival. Other musical interests of Leslie included the training of village choirs and compositions in diverse genres. ~ Keith Johnson