31/07/2026
As our much-loved Head of Creative Arts, Lesley Hunter, retires after an incredible 44-year career, we sat down with her to reflect on her time at TDM. You can read the full feature celebrating Lesley’s extraordinary contribution in the Latest News section of our website: https://tinyurl.com/ms495wjz
What first sparked your love of music?
I started piano lessons at the age of four, but my love of music began even earlier. As a toddler, I would clamber out of my pram and make my way to the piano, banging the keys instead of sleeping!
When did you know music would become your career?
Very early on. I didn’t want to perform though; I wanted to teach. I began teaching pupils aged 11 to 18 and loved the musical challenge of working with older students.
How did your teaching journey lead to TDM?
I worked in Singapore for five years at the British International School, Tanglin, teaching much younger children; a world away from A level music! Initially, I didn’t really know what I was doing, so I thought, “I’ll do it like Play School. I’ll jump around and teach songs.” I discovered how much I loved teaching younger children. After returning to the UK, I later joined Hillstone Prep School which merged with The Downs in 2008.
Is there a musical memory from TDM that will always stay with you?
In 2004, I took a choir to Amsterdam. During a canal trip, the captain offered to take us towards the harbour to see the larger ships, but only if we sang. We performed Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God, with the windows wide open! When we returned to England, customs staff realised we were a choir and playfully refused to let us through until we sang again. Naturally, we chose Seek Ye First.
What do you hope your legacy will be?
I hope anyone who felt music was elitist, or simply not for them, left The Downs realising how wrong they were. Children sometimes arrive saying, “I don’t play an instrument. I don’t do music.” My response is always, “Well, that’s lovely, but you’re here now and we do it!” Music is for everybody.
What will you miss most?
Working with the children. If I could, I’d be here until I’m 100! I will miss them hugely.
