Date of Birth: December 21, 1931
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Date of Death: March 26, 2016
Biography
David Nathaniel Baker was a renowned American composer, educator, and musician, particularly celebrated for his contributions to jazz and classical music. Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Baker’s early life was steeped in music, leading him to pursue a career that would make him a pivotal figure in the world of music. He began his formal education at Indiana University, where he earned both undergraduate and graduate degrees in music. Throughout his career, David Baker composed over 2,000 works, ranging from jazz to symphonic pieces, and was a prominent educator, mentoring countless students at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. His innovative approach to music education and composition garnered him numerous awards and honors, including being named a National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master. Baker’s legacy endures through his extensive body of work and the many musicians he influenced.
5 Interesting Facts about David Baker
1. David Baker was a virtuoso trombonist until a jaw injury forced him to switch to the cello.
2. He served as the president of the International Association for Jazz Education.
3. Baker authored several influential jazz education books, including “Jazz Pedagogy.”
4. He was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1973.
5. Baker received an Emmy Award for his musical score for the PBS documentary “For Gold and Glory.”
5 Most Interesting Quotes from David Baker
1. “Jazz is the great leveler, the common denominator that brings people together.”
2. “Teaching is the most significant thing I do. It allows me to pass on the legacy of jazz.”
3. “Music is a gift from the universe, and it is our duty to share it.”
4. “Every piece of music tells a story, and every musician is a storyteller.”
5. “Innovation in music comes from understanding the past and daring to create the future.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, David Baker’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
David Baker had one daughter, April Baker, who has also pursued a career in the arts.
Relevant Links
2. [National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters](https://www.arts.gov/honors/jazz/david-baker
3. [PBS Documentary “For Gold and Glory”](https://www.pbs.org/program/gold-and-glory/
4. [Interview with David Baker](https://www.jazzedmagazine.com/articles/interviews/david-baker/
5. [David Baker’s Discography](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/david-baker-mn0000675110/discography