Musician, Conductor, Composer, Arranger
Multi-instrumentalist Tom plays piano, accordion, accordion bass, bouzouki, bodhran, whistles, jaw harps, – sometimes several of them at the same time! He plays in many styles including Celtic, East Coast, Rock and Swing.
Recording Artist Tom has two solo instrumental albums “Leighton Tendencies” and “Leighton Life” that demonstrate his keen writing skills, and feature an eclectic mix of sweeping orchestral works, Celtic accordion rants and quirky Swing Jazz. He also has 3 CDs as half of the celebrated Canadian duo Haines and Leighton. “Foot to Floor”, “Optimists Jig” and “Hand to Hand” (nominated for an East Coast Music Award). They have toured Canada, Britain and Sweden.
Accompanist Tom also plays live gigs with such musical talents as Anne Lederman, Conrad Kipping, Marie Lynn Hammond, Rick Bauer and Ian Bell and has performed on over 60 recordings.
Orchestrator/Arranger/Conductor Tom has written many arrangements for choirs, school stage band and even symphonies.
Musical Director on several productions with the Festival Players of Prince Edward County and has conducted the Riverdale Share Concert house band in Toronto for the past 18 years.