Celebrating women in our business : A look on Teresa’s 25 years at Twigg Musique

When you walk into Twigg Musique, the warmth and passion for music are palpable. Behind this vibrant atmosphere is Teresa Lescaudron, whose journey with the company began back in May 1999. Initially Teresa worked on a contract, then transitioned to a full-time sales representative just a few months later and now she has been an integral part of Twigg Musique for over 25 years. Her hiring by Daniel and Pascal Twigg marked the start of a remarkable chapter not just for her, but for the community she serves.

A Trailblazer in a Male-Dominated Industry

One of the most surprising aspects of her early days at Twigg Musique was the gender dynamics among the staff. “I was impressed to see so many women working in the industry, even back then,” Teresa recalls. Having previously worked at music stores in Western Canada and managed a store in Saskatoon, she noticed the shift in the industry landscape.

Armed with a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Saint Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, Teresa has a wealth of experience. As a former band teacher, she brings not only her musical expertise but also a deep understanding of education. Her journey has come full circle with many of those who benefited directly from Teresa's efforts and knowledge as students are now colleagues, working to inspire the next generation.

A Legacy of Music Advocacy

Teresa’s contributions to the music community extends beyond Twigg Musique. As a founding member of the Quebec Band Association (QBA), which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, she has played a vital role in fostering musical talent across the province. Although she no longer sits on the Board of Directors, her involvement has included organizing events and initiatives such as:

• The QBA Honour Band
• Tuba Christmas in Montreal
• The Quebec Youth Wind Ensemble (QYWE)
• The QBA Conference
• Meet & Greet events
• A third session for English at Camp Musical d’Asbestos

Teresa’s commitment to music education is unwavering, and she expresses gratitude for Twigg Musique’s support of her initiatives. “It’s heartwarming to see former students grow into talented teachers,” she shares. “Every child deserves access to music education; it’s essential for their development.”

A Passion for Helping Others

One of Teresa’s most rewarding aspects of her work is helping customers maximize their budgets. “I love being able to guide people in finding the best instruments and resources for their needs,” she explains. “It’s about making music accessible and enjoyable for everyone.”

Reflecting on her career path, Teresa emphasizes that she has always wanted to be involved in music. While the landscape has changed significantly—where today, the majority of her music teaching clients are women—Teresa remembers a time when she was often the only woman in the room, especially in sales roles. Her experiences in the industry have taught her valuable lessons, particularly during her time as a manager in a large company, where the environment was often less than welcoming.

An Inspiring Figure

When asked about women who inspire her, Teresa cites Anne McGinty, a trailblazing arranger of elementary band music from the 70s and 80s. “She was a powerhouse in a time when women were rarely recognized in this field,” Teresa notes. “Anne stood up for herself and worked hard to pave the way for future generations.”

A Community Built on Loyalty

Throughout her years at Twigg Musique, Teresa has forged lasting friendships and connections. “This adventure has been incredible,” she reflects. “I truly appreciate the loyalty of our community. It’s a privilege to be part of their musical journeys.”

As Teresa continues to inspire and support musicians of all ages, her legacy at Twigg Musique is a testament to the transformative power of music and the importance of nurturing talent in an inclusive environment. Here’s to many more years of making music accessible to all!