Biografia
Michael J. Leslie is a composer and orchestrator based in Los Angeles, specializing in film and television. Originally from Florida, he began studying classical piano at seven and later learned trumpet, saxophone, guitar, and violin. During his high school years in Los Angeles, Michael earned multiple awards for his arrangements and original jazz compositions, while participating in choir, orchestra, marching band, symphonic band, and jazz band. This diverse experience exposed him to a wide range of musical styles and genres. He continued his musical journey as a member of the Florida A&M University "Marching 100" band. While taking Film & Television courses at nearby Florida State University, Michael discovered a deep passion for film music. He collaborated with numerous student filmmakers, ultimately scoring over two dozen student films, radio spots, and commercial jingles by the end of college. To advance his career, he returned to Los Angeles, where he soon worked alongside music icons including Quincy Jones. Under Jones's mentorship, Michael gained knowledge of the record industry, conducting, and scoring techniques. He later scored the documentary New York Says Thank You under the guidance of TV legend Mike Post, who, impressed by Michael's skills, invited him to contribute to several episodes of Law & Order: SVU. A meeting with James Newton Howard provided Michael with insight into the daily life, creative process, and business of a Hollywood film composer. Influences such as Quincy Jones, Mike Post, James Newton Howard, Teddy Riley, Brian McKnight, and Kenneth Edmonds have played key roles in shaping Michael’s development as both a musician and entrepreneur. His portfolio includes theatrical trailers, network promos, theme park music, and over 30 advertisements and radio jingles. Proficient in composing and producing Pop, Urban, World/Ethnic, and various other styles, his work has been featured nationwide on NBC, ABC, FOX, CNN, A&E, TLC, The History Channel, and numerous other networks.
