Lesley Locke

Lesley Locke is a talented Classical Crossover artist hailing from Ireland. With a versatile musical repertoire that spans classical, jazz, country, rock, and various folk traditions, Lesley captivates audiences of all ages and nationalities. Her rich and diverse sound has made her a sought-after performer, known for her ability to connect with listeners through a wide range of musical styles. Born in Ireland, Lesley developed a passion for music at an early age. She pursued her studies at Trinity College of Music in London, where she earned several prestigious qualifications, including GTCL, LTCL(GMT), LTCL(PERF), and ATCL. Additionally, she attended Queen’s University, Belfast, where she obtained her HND and BA (Hons) in Drama and Theatre Studies. This solid educational foundation laid the groundwork for her illustrious career in music and performance. Lesley’s professional journey began in 1990 and spanned nearly three decades, primarily in Belfast and London. As a freelance musician, she had the honor of leading the Northern Ireland Symphony Orchestra and performing with Opera Ireland. Her impressive credentials include collaborations with the Irish Film Orchestra and Castleward Opera. She gained recognition as a session musician, contributing to numerous television shows and recordings, working with acclaimed artists such as Celtic Women, Van Morrison, and Vanessa Mae, even performing live on BBC. In addition to her work with established acts, Lesley was the leader of the Dennison String Quartet and played with the band Blue Jar, with whom she toured Denmark and released two albums. Her performances extended to prestigious events, including the Marbella Film Festival in Spain and the MEI Festival in Italy. Lesley also dedicated a portion of her career to teaching, sharing her love for music with students through the Education Boards. In 2008, Lesley relocated to Paphos, Cyprus, where she found new opportunities to showcase her talents. Over the next 15 years, she played six nights a week, establishing residencies at notable hotels and restaurants, including the Columbia and Constantinou Hotels, Elysium, and Anassos. Her performances at various festivals and arts events further solidified her reputation as a premier artist in the region. Notably, she performed for the Irish Embassy and took part in short cruises for Louis Cruises, enchanting guests with her musical versatility. Throughout this period, Lesley performed at over 600 weddings, bringing joy to countless couples on their special days. In the summer of 2023, Lesley made another significant move, this time to Lapta, Kyrenia. Embracing her new surroundings, she continued her solo work while also collaborating with The Reel Irish Band, performing in various venues across Cyprus. Their collective efforts led to the release of two singles, and they are currently in the process of recording an album, showcasing her commitment to evolving as an artist. Lesley has also made her mark in the local media, performing live on BRT radio, further extending her reach and influence. Lesley Locke’s journey is one of passion, dedication, and resilience. She embodies the spirit of a true artist, continually seeking to inspire and connect with audiences through her music.