Lawrence studied at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (formally the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama) then in Switzerland and Germany. He freelanced with all of the Scottish orchestras before taking up his present job with the orchestra of Scottish Opera. He has taught at the Conservatoire since 1983 and has a very keen interest in chamber music which has led to recitals and concerts with Paragon chamber group of Scotland and the Hebrides ensemble for radio and television. He lives in Glasgow with his wife Alison Green and their 2 children. Future plans include improving speaking French and his repertoire of cooking!

Lawrence conducts the EYO Wind Ensemble.