Alex Laing is the Principal Clarinetist of the Phoenix Symphony. His work represents a modern take on orchestral practice. He is committed to exploring how to navigate the push and pull between a legacy art form and its unfixed future. ​

A long-time believer in community-engaged music making, he recently started The Leading Tone, a nonprofit after school program. The project brings music to young people and explores teaching artistry and creative youth development. ​Alex is fortunate to have garnered honors and awards in his career, most recently being recognized with a 2018 Sphinx Medal of Excellence and named one of Musical America's Professionals of the Year for 2017. Reflecting his belief that ‘music isn’t just sound; it’s sounds, words and people,’ he is frequently sought as a collaborator.