“For me, mentorship is a declaration of gratitude to those who taught and mentored me. It’s an expression of confidence in the potential and talent of the next generation of vocalist. Above all, it’s about helping my students dig deep to fulfill their promise by sharing my experience, my knowledge, and my passion for music and performance”

Leslie Fagan is an Associate Professor at Sir Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario, where she co-ordinates the VoiceArea in the Faculty of Music. She also teaches and mentors aspiring singers in private-studio settings – and even online.

“Sharing first hand knowledge empowers an aspiring artist to transform their natural gift into a professional tool that commands a stage and moves an audience. I am devoted to helping my students access a new richness to their performance and travel from skilled vocalist to true artist. I hold space for a singer’s potential when they cannot always hold it for themselves. My role is to remind them of their dream – and put my expertise to use in helping them achieve it.”

Leslie’s students have gone on to attend the Royal College of Music, the Royal Scottish Academy, the Manhattan School of Music, the Prague Conservatory of Music, and other institutions of note.

“In education, lasting progress is achieved through connection – and connection comes from kindness. I care about my students. And they care about their art. I teach for the same reason that I sing – because a vocal performance has the power to change how people feel and what they think. How often has a sad song caused emotions to well up inside? How often has a joyful composition prompted a tapping of the toe, a clapping of the hands, a rising sense of happiness? Singing can change the energy in a room. It can transform outlooks. It can stay with you. I know that my students have a song to contribute to the world and it is my honour to help them find their individual pathway of expression.”

Leslie creates an environment where each student can access and deliver a deeply authentic performance, sharing their interpretation of a song with assurance.

She deftly discerns each student’s specific needs and finds the appropriate approach and learning style. Through technique and interpretation, she helps create a pathway to the artist’s next level of awareness and success.

Leslie has devised and delivered masterclasses at the Julliard School and at institutions across Canada and around the world. During the pandemic, she delivered a series of masterclasses through the Oratorio Society of New York. She believes in sharing her experience and expertise for the benefit for aspiring artists.

“The words ‘kind’ and ‘honest’ are foundational in my teaching of young singers. I create and sustain an environment of positive, passionate, and authentic learning. I work to build relationships of trust and understanding. I care about the people I teach. I believe in them – and encourage them to believe in themselves. I get excited and cheer when a student accomplishes a hard-earned concept.”

It’s about more than giving back. It’s paying forward.