Leslie Craven is one of Britain's most respected and accomplished clarinettists. Until 1993, when he moved to Wales to enjoy the relaxed lifestyle, he was one of London's busiest freelance principal clarinettists in every musical genre. He is widely known throughout U.K. and overseas as a soloist, principal clarinettist, pedagogue and author, recording artist, examiner and conductor of orchestras and wind ensembles. He gives master classes in his studio at home and in several other notable establishments.(See teaching)

Leslie lives in Monmouth in the beautiful Wye Valley (see www.wyevalleytourism.co.uk) and enjoys walking in the surrounding hills with his family and Rhodesian Ridgeback dog "Themba". He is often found flyfishing and watching cricket and tending to his Bonsai trees when not performing.

Enjoy the tour of the site and do visit the downloads page where you can download extracts from Leslie's book, if you would like to purchase a copy, orders can be placed via the provided email address or by purchasing online

Before you leave the site do make use of Leslie's expertise and submit any clarinet related questions via the guestbook / forum for questions or simply leave a message to register your visit. There are some interesting pictures of events and the links pages have many useful clarinet orientated sites.

NEW "Exclusive Leslie Craven Model mouthpiece" manufactured in America by Bradford Behn based on thirty years research and development by Leslie : see Innovations page for details of how to order.

CD of Les playing the Christopher Ball Clarinet Concerto is now out on Quantum Records QM7040. Available from Euravent and Discovery Records. Many thanks to the World Clarinet Alliance for bringing the cd to members' and visitors' notice. Sound files of clips from the CD are available from Christopher Ball's web site
March 2007 - CASS review of Chris Ball cd, including concerto for clarinet and strings, with Les as soloist

Check out the Clarinet Convention page with gallery and slideshow
Listen to a recording of a live performance of Tom Jackson's Sonata for clarinet alone played by Les at the Clarinet Summer School Liverpool

Enter Your Email Address to register for Leslie's mailing list. Leslie will be able to contact you with information regarding performances, additions to the site and the progress of his book

Email Address :

Subscribe      Unsubscribe