Biography Chris Leslie

Chris Leslie (born Christopher Julien Leslie on 15 December 1956, in Banbury, Oxfordshire, England) is an English electric folk musician. As well as recording a numer of sole albums, Leslie has played with a number of seminal English folk-rock bands, including Whippersnapper and The Albion Band. He joined Fairport Convention in 1996.

Inspired by local musicians, Leslie began playing the fiddle at the age of thirteen. At the age of 16 he made his first album recording, with the Northamptonshire folk band Mithras on Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, released in 1974. One of his early influences and, later, his mentor was Fairport Convention's then-fiddler Dave Swarbrick.

In 1976 he recorded his album 'The Ship of Time' at which time he was partnered by his brother John Leslie. Leslie also played with singer-songwriter Steve Ashley, touring extensively in the UK and continental Europe.

Leslie studied violin making in Nottinghamshire and completed his three-year course 1983. Back to Oxfordshire, he was invited to tour with Dave Pegg to promote Dave's solo album.

Dave Swarbrick invited Leslie to become a founder member of the pioneering acoustic group Whippersnapper. This band made several albums and toured the UK, Europe and the USA. Chris also toured with light goth, rock group All About Eve.

During the 1990s, Leslie worked as a duo with Whippersnapper guitarist Kev Dempsey collaborated with folk pianist Beryl Marriott, and was a member of Simon Mayor's Mandolin Quartet. He also played fiddle on tour with Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull.

In 1995 Leslie joined The Albion Band, touring and recording with them before joining Fairport Convention the next year. As well as playing and recording with them, Leslie has contributed many songs to Fairport's repertoire.

In the run-up to Christmas each year, Leslie tours with seasonal group St Agnes Fountain. His session credits include work for Ralph McTell, Steve Ashley, Alan Stivell, Chris While & Julie Mathews, Jez Lowe, Christine Collister, Maartin Allcock, The Melstock Band, Kieran Halpin, John Wright, All About Eve, and Mostly Autumn. Leslie has also recorded three solo albums.

Discography: Solo albums

The Gift Chris Leslie with Beryl Marriottye (Cassette only) on the Beautiful Jo label, 1996.

The Flow was launched at Fairport Convention's 30th anniversary festival at Cropredy, August 1997, Released on Beautiful Jo.

Dancing Days was released by Talking Elephant, 2004

Leslie lives in Adderbury, Oxfordshire.

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