LESLIE MACDONALD - MSC., RAD-TC, Body Harmonics Comprehensively Certified Pilates Instructor

Leslie started her long life in dance and movement education in 1967 at the age of 5 at the National Ballet School in Toronto, then studied  as a teenager at the Lois Smith School of Dance, and in the George Brown College dance program in Toronto. After extensive training as an adult under Patricia McLeod and Linda Godwin at the Royal City School of Dance in Guelph, Ontario, she successfully undertook the Teaching Certification examination of the Royal Academy of Dancing, passing with honours. More than 20 years of teaching students of every age followed. Her Pilates teacher training began soon after at Pilates in Guelph, with certification as a Mat Specialist completed at Body Harmonics in Toronto in 2007.  Studies at Dance Theatre David Earle in Guelph sparked a strong interest in modern dance, and a deep respect for mature dancers in general, and for Martha Graham in particular. After moving to Rochester in 2009 she was privileged to have studied with and taught for Christine Fendley of the Park Avenue Dance company, and also for Elizabeth Clarke.

She has also worked with students of trumpet at the Eastman School of Music and at brass player’s symposia, applying the principals of Pilates for improved breathing, posture and increased confidence while performing. As of the fall of 2016, retiring after a 30 year career in biological sciences research, Leslie is now focused full time on exploring teaching opportunities working with dancers, musicians and athletes and playing a lot more trumpet in local orchestras and small ensembles. After completing the required 800 hours of Pilates training, teaching, and testing, Leslie is now a Balanced Body Comprehensively Certified Pilates instructor.  Leslie is delighted to be a member of NU Movement and the possibilities it offers for teachers and students alike.