Leon Anderson, Jr., is a Professor of Jazz Studies at Florida State University since 1998. His musical experience includes that of a classical and jazz background. Anderson also is a well-known clinician, composer, and educator. He received the B.A. degree in Music Education at Louisiana Tech University in 1992, and completed his graduate studies at Southeastern Louisiana University, just outside of New Orleans, LA. Consequently, Mr. Anderson also honed his skills as a performing jazz drummer in the city of New Orleans with mentors Ellis Marsalis and Victor Goines. In addition to numerous concert dates, recordings, and has toured and performed with the likes of Wycliffe Gordon, Marcus Roberts, Allan Harris, Tommy Flannigan, Art Farmer, Donald Brown, Nathen Page, Terence Blanchard, James Moody, Melvin Jones, Kevin Bales, Etienne Charles (and many others). Anderson has also served as an annual clinician for Swing Central Jazz (Savannah Music Festival), and has served as conductor for several All-County and All-State Jazz Bands throughout the Southeast.

His professional recordings include albums with Victor Goines, Marcus Roberts, Richie Summa, Etienne Charles, David Detweiler, Melvin Jones and Larry Panella.

Leon Anderson continues to perform as a professional drummer nationally and internationally at various festivals, concert halls, and jazz venues throughout the world. He also is a very in-demand clinician, and guest artist at many public schools and colleges across the country. Anderson also serves as an artist for Sabian cymbals, Vic Firth sticks and mallets, and Remo drum heads.