Specialising in chamber music, Leslie is a founding member of the T’ang Quartet and more recently, Red Dot Baroque. Alongside his flourishing international career as a baroque cellist, Leslie has been teaching music for 40 years to students ranging from ages six to 60. In 2003, he was appointed a faculty member of the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music at the National University of Singapore.

How did you get into teaching?

Teaching is something most musicians have to be involved in. And it makes sense because there is always that need for a particular pedagogical heritage to carry on, as well as for young and emerging musicians to be nurtured.

My role as an educator recently took a detour and in a way, I have become a student again—and what a joy this reversal of roles is! The Red Dot Baroque ensemble is made up of young musicians, mostly half my age, and formed in adversity, during the pandemic. The entrepreneurial spirit to start something out of nothing, during such trying times, is a testament to their spirit of adventure, and their belief in their education. 

What makes it really special to be in this group is that, once, not so long ago, I had the pleasure of teaching some of them. Now, I have the privilege to learn from them!

Is there a particular group of students you find especially rewarding to teach?

My specialty is chamber music. I love working with young students who have not had the experience of working together in a small ensemble. To see them learn and enjoy the exciting and wonderful possibilities of musical partnerships is my favourite thing. 

Have there been challenges in your teaching journey?

Tough times are aplenty—unmotivated students and ambitious parents! Finding solutions to these issues is challenging and frustrating and requires creative thinking.

Suffice to say that nothing is simply what it seems. And when teachers become bored, or jaded, or worse still, decide that the pursuit of expediency is the best route, we deprive our students from the joys of discovery. We straight-jacket and lead them away from the kaleidoscope of knowledge. Perhaps parents may play a part too. But the magic in discovery is right there and not difficult to uncover. 

What do you find the most rewarding about your work?

I find motivation in opening possibilities for students, showing them various solutions to problems, and seeing their eyes light up. It’s rewarding to know that what I impart to them will benefit them later in life. 

What would you say to a young person who wants to pursue music today? 

Think of your studies not as a means to an end. Education and the acquiring of knowledge is an adventurous journey filled with discovery and joy. The pathway in music does not only lead to the concert stage. This road can lead to different and interesting branches like music therapy, recording production and engineering, acoustic sciences, social work, childhood education, and so on. 

Ignore those who say that you cannot make a living as a musician.