At just 30 years old, Glenn Alexander II has already made history as one of the few Black conductors in today’s classical and theatrical landscape. From Carnegie Hall to the national tour of Les Misérables, his journey reflects not only talent and training but also a deep sense of purpose.
Raised in Port Arthur, Texas, Alexander’s earliest experiences in music came through church, where he learned to create spontaneously and authentically. That foundation, he says, still guides him today: “I try to go into music with an open heart and an open mind. At the finish line, I just want it to be something we all love.”
His professional growth took shape through programs like Chicago Sinfonietta’s Project Inclusion and the Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras fellowship, where he spent two and a half years honing not just conducting skills, but leadership. “They don’t just teach you skills on the podium,” he explains. “They show you how to navigate fundraising, speaking to leadership, and everything else it takes to sustain a career.”
That versatility proved crucial when opportunity knocked—quite literally on the subway. Alexander recalls meeting Jon Batiste through his mentor Damien Sneed. “I got the call at 4:30, had to be there by 6:30, and learned the music on the subway ride,” he says with a laugh. The gig led to a collaboration with Batiste that culminated in the Carnegie Hall premiere of American Symphony, later featured in Netflix’s acclaimed documentary. “It was surreal,” Alexander admits. “To be this kid from Texas leading all these incredible musicians—it was one of the most incredible experiences of my life.”
Today, Alexander serves as Music Director for the U.S. Tour of Les Misérables. It’s a role that demands stamina—three-hour shows, eight times a week—but one he embraces with joy. “It’s an honor to conduct such a legendary show night after night,” he says. “I think of the concert hall like a hospital. For three hours, we help people forget what they’re going through. I take pride in bringing joy to others.”
What makes Alexander’s artistry distinctive is his openness across genres. From classical and gospel to theater and contemporary collaborations, he sees it all as part of the same musical language. Quoting Duke Ellington, he reflects: “There are two types of music—good music and bad music. For me, music is music. The challenge is to interpret each style authentically.”
As one of the few visible Black conductors, Alexander also carries a responsibility he doesn’t take lightly. “I’ve been told a lot of what I can’t do,” he says. “But I believe it’s my purpose to show people who look like me that it’s possible to exist in these spaces. Representation is getting better, but it can always improve. If I can use my platform to uplift my community, I absolutely will.”
For Alexander, the greatest reward isn’t fame or accolades—it’s family pride. Turning 30 just weeks ago, he reflects: “The biggest accolade is my family seeing me play Carnegie Hall.”
With his blend of vision, vulnerability, and authenticity, Glenn Alexander II isn’t just conducting music. He’s conducting change—one performance, one community, and one stage at a time.
Les Misérables returns to Broadway San Diego, at the San Diego Civic Theatre, September 16-21, 2025. Click here for tickets.