About
Colin Leonard is a jazz multi-instrumentalist and composer with a strong passion for performance and composition. Playful yet introspective, his postmodern style reflects his love for improvised music. Colin is a fourth-year student at Oberlin Conservatory of Music, where he is majoring in Jazz Performance under Gary Bartz and minoring in Environmental Studies. Colin plans to teach, perform, and compose music to advocate creative thinking, community building, and a better relationship with our environment.
Bio
Jazz multi-instrumentalist and composer Colin Leonard weaves together soulful melodies on the saxophone while embracing the harmonious connection between music and the natural world. Born and raised in Sarasota, FL, Colin’s musical journey began at the young age of 5, exploring various instruments before discovering his true passion for the saxophone at 10. With over a decade of dedicated practice, his expressive improvisations have become a hallmark of his artistry, drawing inspiration from an array of musical styles.
Currently in his final year at Oberlin Conservatory of Music, Colin is majoring in Jazz Studies and minoring in Environmental Studies. Guided by mentors such as Tony Benade, Gary Bartz, Justin Robinson, Gerald Cannon, Eddie Henderson, Dan Wall, and Paul Samuels, Colin has developed a sound that is playful yet introspective. As a true multi-instrumentalist, he effortlessly switches between saxophones, clarinet, flute, piccolo, recorders, piano, guitar, aux percussion, and even vocals. Beyond performing, Colin’s creativity shines through his compositions, arrangements, and music production, reflecting a passion for pushing artistic boundaries.
Colin’s musical journey took flight professionally at the age of 15 when he joined the Sarasota/Bradenton music scene with his jazz quartet, “Loose Change.” Today, he stands as a proud member of the Jazz Club of Sarasota, collaborating with esteemed bands like the Barker Project, Sarasota Jazz Project, and leading his own ensembles.
Colin is currently working on an album that incorporates nature recordings from around the world and using them as the foundation for his compositions. This fusion of music and ecology reflects his commitment to harmonizing art and the environment.
Colin performed as a featured guest artist at the CMC International Jazz Festival of Buffalo, New York, alongside the acclaimed band “Moonglow.” His talent extends beyond jazz, as he has also made a mark in the film industry, composing all the music for “The Last Rung,” showcased in multiple esteemed film festivals. He has performed at events like the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, DC, and Giving Hunger to the Blues in Sarasota, FL.
Colin Leonard’s captivating journey continues to unfold, showcasing his talent as a jazz multi-instrumentalist. He is committed to teaching, performing, and composing music that advocates for creative thinking, community building, and a harmonious relationship with our environment.