Leslie Nye grew up in Rancho Cordova and at age 11, inspired by Oboist Ben Glovinsky of the Sacramento Symphony, learned to play oboe in the Summer Band music program in the Folsom Cordova district. In junior high, she also learned to play alto and tenor saxophone for stage band under the direction of Ken Cave, band director at Mitchell Junior High. In high school, Leslie continued with oboe in the concert band as well as tenor sax in the stage band, under the direction of Linda Baker. For fun, she played bells and bass drum in marching band. One of the highlights of Leslie's musical career during high school was in 1973. She and her fellow Cordova Concert band members were invited to the Berlin Music Festival, which included a three week musical concert tour of Europe (England, Scotland, France, Germany and Belgium). Together, the band raised $45,000 with car washes, raffles and chocolate bar sales, in addition to each family pitching in $600.00 each, which was a lot of money in 1973. She and 65 other Cordova High concert band members embarked on a musical tour, playing in a variety of venues in England, Scotland, and Germany. One of the highlights of this whirlwind tour was playing the "Hogan's Hero's March" for the (then communist) East Berlin Mayor on the steps of the East Berlin Town Hall. The political irony of this song was lost on the mayor, but the students in the band enjoyed every second! It was a “once in a lifetime” trip, with many wonderful memories that remain to this day of good friends, music and fun.

After high school, Leslie dropped out of music, but always missed playing in a musical group, as well as the enjoyment and camaraderie of being a part of a musical ensemble. After over 30 years, Leslie auditioned with the Sacramento Symphonic Winds in early 2006 and has been playing with the band ever since. For the past couple of years, Leslie has been active on the SSW Board, holding positions of Member at Large, Secretary, as well as Band Manager for 2 seasons.

Leslie holds a B.S. in Psychology and M.S. in Counseling \with a Career Specialization from CSUS. She is also a Master Certified Graphoanalyst (handwriting expert) and is a noted speaker and trainer for the International Graphoanalysis Society. In 2006, she was awarded Graphoanalyst of the Year. Leslie is married and has two adult daughters who continue to inspire her towards new goals. She works at DeVry University as the Associate Director, Career Services at their Sacramento campus.