A Life in Music For Kids
About Phil
Brightening the lives of children through music
Known for his signature style red guitar, catchy tunes, and heartfelt lyrics, Phil Baker writes songs that help children to learn something about the world around them.
Many of his songs have familiar themes like friendship and nature. Through his music, he encourages children to live their lives in a carefree and imaginative way.
Baker involves children throughout his shows. Many of the songs he uses include actions for the listener to follow.
He creates a welcoming performance environment that encourages individual expression as well as group engagement.
"I've seen children having so much fun dancing together," he says, "that they fall to the floor in laughter."
When composing, Baker incorporates rich chords, vibrant rhythms, singable melodies, and diverse genres such as Brazilian samba, World folk, jazz, and 70s Rock.
Baker appreciates when children will enjoy his guitar playing and singing, and hopes to inspire the next generation of musicians, painters, illustrators, poets, dancers, filmmakers, and storytellers; the future artisans of the world.
"There's joy in using one's imagination to create something new. It's important to encourage children to use their sense of play and wonder," Baker says.
Through his love for guitar, Phil has created a musical world for children, a world that has become a life in music for kids.
Musician
Phil plays guitar and sings. As a musician, he performs music for a young audience.
Songwriter
Phil writes songs. He writes the melody and the lyrics. His songs are fun, interactive, and educational.
Educator
After performing in schools for many years, Phil earned a Master's degree in Education. He is a children's music specialist.
Music Producer
Phil makes records. As a music producer, he oversees the production of the band. He's worked with some really cool musicians.
Did You Know
Phil Baker Is...
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A touring artist with the S.D. Arts Council, since 1987
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A four-time White House Easter Egg Roll performer
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A national presenter for CHARACTER COUNTS! (2001-11)
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The founder of the S.D. Just Say No Club
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A former adjunct teacher at Dakota State University
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An inductee into the S.D. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
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A South Dakota Man of the Year; honored by the S.D. State Legislature for his work with young people
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A former guest artist on S.D. Public Television
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A Downbeat Magazine award-winner for Best College Studio Jazz Recording, University of Miami, Fl
By The
Numbers
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2 million road miles, and counting
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34 years of performing music for kids
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4,500 live performances in 13 countries
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shared the stage with 120 national acts like Barney
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10,000 classroom visits
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120 USO-type shows for Military Families in Europe, the Middle East, and across the United States
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4 million current users of Sanford Health FIT music
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18,000 classrooms and 8 million children using Sanford Harmony music
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Lots of happy, smiling children
Let's GO!
Need a Show?
Phil Baker Music
PO Box 88852
Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57109
(605) 321-9546
Follow Phil:
Brightening the Lives of Children through Music, since 1986