Biography of Leslie Dawn Knowles

I was born in Los Angeles into a musical family. My father, a classically trained pianist and jazz musician, and my artistic mother nurtured my early love of music. I was started on violin at 4 and at 15 I joined the musicians’ union to begin working professionally.

At 18, I moved to Baltimore to study with Berl Senofsky and soon joined the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. I later studied with Dorothy DeLay, whose guidance profoundly shaped my musical life. My favourite piece of advice from her still stands: “Every time you pick up your instrument, you are teaching yourself to play”. Mindfulness is everything, a lesson for life!

In 1975, I joined the first violin section of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, beginning my long and meaningful association with Canada’s orchestral community. At that time, the Brantford Symphony Orchestra operated under a community-based model, augmented by musicians from nearby Hamilton and area, reinforced by players bused in from Toronto for a rehearsal and concert.

Some years ago, there was a transition away from the community-based group to all professional players, and I was honored to be appointed Concertmaster by Music Director Stanley Saunders. I enjoyed his warmth, rich knowledge, and always interesting repertoire. David Bowser became Music Director after Stanley retired, and we had many exciting concerts with him for several years. We developed a close personal and musical friendship which still thrives today. Philip Sarabura has been a joy to work with in every way. He is a wonderful musician, always calm and clear, and truly a gentleman. I know our paths will continue to cross.

A lot of preparation is needed to prepare a concert on the one rehearsal model currently in use here. It isn’t impossible though, as you have all seen and heard over the years. I am very proud of our players for always coming through with spirit and focus as we make music together. Some of our core members and I go back decades and share special bonds.. Our newer and more occasional players are enthusiastic and lovely, and always enjoyable to have as well. Coming together to play in this treasured Sanderson Centre has always been a pleasure.

Outside of music, I enjoy cooking, being outdoors (especially camping and hiking), photography, and creating art with watercolors and mixed media. I am married to Mark Tetreault and am Mom to 5 wonderful grown children and two Boston Terriers. Mark and I love going on adventures together and are also bandmates.

As I move on to a new chapter and a move to the mountains, I plan to remain musically engaged, performing in bluegrass, jazz, rock, you name it on violin, viola, mandolin, lap steel guitar, Hardanger fiddle and probably a few other instruments I haven’t discovered yet. I love working with songwriters bringing new songs to life and have a few projects on the go.

I wish to thank everyone for all of your support over these many years and wish you all the best as the orchestra moves on to a new era.