John L. Baker Memorial Fund Information
The basic philosophy of the Parkway West Band Department under John L. Baker was to maintain a balance of quality in all three areas of the program... concert, jazz and marching. It was a goal he diligently strove to achieve. The “John L. Baker Music Scholars Award” was established to support the principles he espoused: Excellence in Musicianship, Leadership and Character.
During his sixteen-year tenure with Parkway West High School, his bands were invited to perform at numerous state, regional and national conferences, including the National Band Association’s National Conference, and twice at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic. Known for quality sound and excellent musical performance, bands under Mr. Baker consistently demonstrated strong character and respect for the other bands with whom they competed.
Dr. Baker held a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia, a Master’s degree from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, and received his Ph.D. in Music Education from Florida State University. In addition to his years teaching at Parkway West High School, he served as Director of Bands for two years at Florida State University. At the time of his death in 2001, he held the position of Director of Symphonic and Marching Bands, and taught music education and conducting courses at the University of Northern Iowa.
Dr. Baker maintained an active profile as guest conductor, adjudicator, professional resource and music education advocate. Among numerous awards for his work, he was twice a recipient of the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic’s “Medal of Honor”, received the National Band Association’s “Citation of Excellence”, and was recognized by Phi Beta Mu Music Honorary as Missouri’s “Outstanding Band Director”. During his years in St. Louis he regularly performed as a professional trumpet player.
He is remembered for his passion for music, dedication to and belief in his students, high expectations and laughter. Every year since his death colleagues, friends and former students have performed a tribute concert to honor his memory. The donations collected at this annual jazz band concert are used to support the “John L. Baker Music Scholars Award”.
To apply for the The John L. Baker Music Scholars Award, you must complete both the standard Granting Dreams application found here, and the John Baker Supplement found here. Deadline for both applications is will be announced.