Chris began studying music on the piano at the age of 7, and received his grade 8 in classical piano through the Royal Conservatory at age 12. He began drumming when he was 9, and has never looked back. After gaining experience performing and writing music in various bands, he studied with many world-renowned artists such as Dom Famularo, Jim Chapin and Jim Blackley. Chris has also spent time in India studying with legendary Tabla player Swapan Chaudhuri.

Chris’ unique blend of hard rock, jazz, and world flavored rhythms can be heard with his band modus factor (with Brownman and Ian DeSouza), and has also recorded and toured internationally with many acts including Cavalia Odysseo and Wild T And The Spirit.

Chris is a proud educator teaching a full roster of students, performing motivational speaking and drum events, and is a guest faculty member at Metalworks Institute. Also a writer, he contributing to regularly to Drums Etc and Canadian Musician Magazine, and has designed a goal centered curriculum for his students. Chris is endorsed by Sonor Drums, Evans Heads, Sabian Cymbals and Vic Firth Sticks.

The future holds an ever-improving output of energetic live shows and rhythmically intense recorded work, always drawing from a wide range of influences and styles. For news, show listings, and video clips, please visit: chrislesso.com

Q & A

LIVES IN (city): Toronto

BORN IN (city): Oshawa

DRUMMING SINCE: 7 years old

CURRENT BAND/PROJECT(S): My band modus factor, and my LTR (Life Through Rhythm) Drum Events

BIGGEST INFLUENCE(S): Tony Williams, Jojo Mayer, Michael Jordan, Albert Einstein

FAVORITE ALBUM YOU PLAYED ON: “The Picasso Zone”, modus factor

FAVORITE ALBUM YOU DIDN’T PLAY ON: Led Zeppelin ‘Physical Graffiti

CAREER HIGHLIGHT: Being able to inspire others by doing what I love!

FAVORITE SABIAN CYMBAL: HHX OMNI