Alex Laing

Alex Laing is a prominent leader in the classical music community, currently serving as Executive Director of the Gateways Music Festival since 2015, where the festival promotes classical musicians of African descent. Laing has held the position of Principal Clarinet with The Phoenix Symphony since 2002 and actively participates in education and outreach initiatives. As core faculty for the League of American Orchestras’ 'Essentials' course, Laing contributes to the development of orchestra management training. The Juilliard School has benefited from Laing's expertise through a workshop on anti-racist practices for orchestral musicians, while From the Top gains creative insights from Laing as co-host. Previously, Laing founded and directed The Leading Tone, a creative youth development project, and served as Lead Faculty for the YOLA National Institute. Educational qualifications include a Master’s degree from Manhattan School of Music, a Bachelor's degree from Northwestern University, an Artist’s Diploma from Sweelinck Conservatorium Amsterdam, and a nonprofit management certificate from ASU Lodestar Center.