It appears that *ANY* minstrel trainer will give you the initial class quest which does indeed send you to speak with Leigh Putnam so IMO the original information was correct. I got the quest from the minstrel trainer in The Shire, ALL class trainers offer you your initial quest which send you to the correct NPC for the instance portion.
I typed out the quest information as it appeared in my book.
A MINSTREL'S HOPE
* Talk with Leigh Putnam.
Description:
Leigh Putnam is in Trestlebridge, in the North Downs.
Leigh Putnam has sent out a call for minstrels to aid in lightening the mood of the embattled populace of Trestlebridge.
Background:
Even when all hope is gone, a worthy minstrel keeps his friends going despite the danger.
Edit: I would like to add that none of the mobs were technically 'elite' they were 'signature' type mobs which are a bit easier than elites.
Edited, Mar 14th 2008 11:11am by simonots