Phil Baker's Biography

Meet Phil Baker
A Friend to Children Everywhere

For nearly 20 years, Phil Baker has used music to educate, entertain, and enrich the lives of young people.  He has played guitar, sung, directed and produced shows, and keynoted events throughout the United States and places as far away as Australia and Costa Rica.

Born in Framingham, Mass., and currently residing with his family in Sioux Falls, S.D., his commitment to impact the lives of children is surpassed only by his desire to be an involved dad and caring husband.

Early in his career, Phil found himself writing songs about the joys in life and the innocence of childhood, songs that captured the hearts and imaginations of children.  It was his desire to make children smile that led him back to the idea that music can reach and challenge children.

His dynamic presentations tap the potential of today's youth, inviting them to make a difference in their families, schools, and communities, while his infectious ability to connect with an audience through songs and activities leaves young people with the impression they can help make the world a better place.

Phil has earned numerous grants, nominations, and awards for his public service, and in 1987 he was selected one of the top 12 U.S. Young Men of America.

Recent Highlights

M.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction, South Dakota State University, 1995; B.A. Speech Communication, SDSU, 1986; Jazz Performance, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Fl, 1982

Four-time White House performer; collaborated with President's Council on Physical Fitness, and fitness expert Denise Austin to design fitness area for 2004 White House Easter Egg Roll

Formed national partnership with Josephson Institute of Ethics in Los Angeles, Calif., to promote CHARACTER COUNTS! in schools

Touring artist for South Dakota Arts Council, since 1987, and Heartland Arts Fund, since 2000; with grant support from the National Endowment for the Arts

Starred in the Addy award-winning video Tell the Truth which teaches children about the federal courtroom process

On March 15, 2004, 1,600 children joined Phil at the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Sciences in Sioux Falls, S.D., for premier of The Friendship Suite

Children's music video We Can Move won Telly Gold Award, and Film Advisory Board Award of Excellence; top finisher out of 11,000 entries (Telly)

Founded South Dakota Just Say No Club; led three-year drug prevention effort in 500 schools and communities for 100,000 children

Nominated for Peabody Award, PBS children's television series I Can Move features music and movement for children of differing abilities (with or without special needs)

Performed for 125,000 at 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005 Mount Rushmore Independence Day Celebrations

Film Advisory Board Award of Excellence winner and Parents' Choice Award nominee The Big Oak Tree recording