Xander Dawson
Saxophonist | Woodwind Doubler | Arranger
Xander Dawson is a Boston-based woodwind doubler specializing in musical theatre, cabaret, and commercial performance. He is a multi-instrumentalist covering piccolo, flute, clarinet, saxophones, oboe, and piano.
He has performed on cruise ships with Azamara Club Cruises and Explora Journeys, including as part of the inaugural cast opening their first cruise ship, Explora I. As a freelance woodwind doubler, he has worked with artists including Kerry Ellis and Rachel York.
He has performed with Wheelock Family Theatre, Emerson College, Boston University, Berklee College of Music, and Boston Conservatory at Berklee, and in New York cabaret venues such as The Green Room 42 and 54 Below. He has also served as Associate Music Director of the Berklee Broadway Band.
Outside of music, Xander is Head Resident Assistant for Berklee College of Music housing, overseeing a team of Resident Assistants and managing schedules for the student community. He also works as a Core Music Tutor at Boston Conservatory at Berklee, supporting undergraduate and graduate students in music theory and ear training. He also serves as an Admissions Ambassador, leading campus tours and connecting with prospective students.
Xander is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Saxophone Performance at Boston Conservatory at Berklee, studying with Philipp Stäudlin. He is available for pit orchestras, touring productions, session recording, and arranging/copying. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch for any inquiries.
“The sax playing is the stand-out on this track, balanced pushy harsh notes along with the most delicate of touches. The sax soars away with the melody in a raspy, improvised, tonal reflection of the original theme, almost delicate in its note placement. A gorgeous sax-led section adds variation and reflection.”
— Sammy Stein, United Kingdom, Jazz Views Reviews