Smith Magnet Elementary School: Music Teacher, North Carolina Central University: Drumline Instructor, Shaw University: Adjunct Percussion Professor

MM (University of North Carolina at Greensboro), BMe (North Carolina Central University)

Born in Jacksonville, Florida and raised in Snellville, Georgia, Leonard’s sound is a reflection of his southern roots. As a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and North Carolina Central University, Leonard has established himself as a music educator and percussionist. 

As a music educator, Leonard has served as Assistant Band Director for Northern Guilford High School and Lexington Senior High School. His duties included coordinating all aspects of the percussion section and assisting the band director with any necessities regarding the band program. He has also had the opportunity to teach percussion at various schools such as Hillside High School, Voyager Academy, Discovery Charter School, and Bull City Music School. In addition, he has been able to conduct several masterclasses on the high school and collegiate level focusing on marching fundamentals and composition. Currently, he is the Music Teacher at Smith Magnet Elementary School, Drumline Instructor at North Carolina Central University, and Adjunct Percussion Professor at Shaw University.

Aside from his various performances with NCCU and UNCG, Leonard has had the honor of being selected to participate in the Adirondack Performing Arts Fellowship in Speculator, New York for consecutive years and has not only performed at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention, but serves on the PAS Marching/Rudimental Commitee.

His love and dedication to music continues to provide him with opportunities to grow as a creative, percussionist and clinician. He is always seeking new ways to build connections within the music community and develop creative avenues to share his gift with the world.