Born in Washington, DC, clarinetist Alexander Laing began his musical studies there at age 11, and was later selected to continue his studies as a scholarship student of The National Symphony Orchestra.
In the fall of 2001, Alexander was appointed principal clarinet of The Phoenix Symphony and assumed his duties in the orchestra in the winter of 2002. Before coming to Phoenix, he held positions with The New World Symphony and The Detroit Symphony Orchestra, where for two years he performed as the orchestra fellow.
As a soloist and chamber musician, Alexander has performed in many of the world's great concert halls including Amsterdam's famed Concertgebow, The Kennedy Center, a live radio simulcast from Chicago's Symphony Center, and as a guest artist in the "Winter Music at Aspen" series. The 2002 season marks Alexander's debut as a soloist with The Phoenix Symphony, performing Weber's Concerto No. 1 under the baton of Maestro Michael.
In addition to his work as a performer, Alexander has long believed in the importance and role of music education and community service. As such, he is active in the Symphony's education programs, and volunteers and serves on the board for Rosie's House, which offers musical instruction free of charge to underserved children in Phoenix.
Alexander has garnered a number of awards and honors during his career including fellowships from both The Tanglewood Music Center and The Aspen Music Festival. A graduate of Northwestern University, he received his master's degree from the Manhattan School of Music, as well as an artist's diploma from the Sweelinck Conservatorium Amsterdam.