While working as a third-grade teacher in the Jefferson County Public School System in Louisville, KY, Diane Downs founded The Fabulous Leopard Percussionists in 1993 and directed that group for ten years. She then created and has directed The Louisville Leopard Percussionists, a non-profit, community based group, ever since. She also serves as a consultant to numerous elementary percussion ensemble programs around the United States. In recognition for her work, Diane has received awards from the Louisville Arts Council, Today’s Woman Magazine, The Jazz Education Network and Berklee College of Music, the Percussive Arts Society and more.
