Jessica Baker- Violin & Viola
Teaching Philosophy
My philosophy is that every person has an inner musical self that can absolutely be expressed through a musical instrument with proper support and personal initiative. I believe that student support should include positive feedback, gentle criticism with practice advice, in-lesson workshopping, and an investment in the student as a person. I believe that student practice can become a welcomed habit with positive feedback and reward either by the parents/teacher, and/or through the student’s intrinsic value of learning a new skill. Performances and the sharing of music should be regular and celebratory in order to create association between performance and reward. Student success relies on the coalition between the teacher, student, and parents (if applicable) to create a safe and welcoming space to create sounds and learn a new skill. It is my goal through teaching and performing to reach as many people as possible by touching their heart and spreading joy through music.
Biography
Jessica Baker is a violinist and educator from Indianapolis, IN. She received her BM in Music Education from the University of Indianapolis in 2022 and is currently working towards an MA in strings at the University of Iowa. Jessica has played for numerous symphonies in the Midwest including the Hendricks Symphony Orchestra, Danville Illinois Symphony, Carmel Symphony, and Lafayette Symphony on both violin and viola. Between orchestral performances and chamber ensembles, Jessica maintained a private studio of over 55 students in Indianapolis and directed the 3rd and 4th grade orchestra in Zionsville, IN. Jessica’s teaching philosophy highlights that every student can learn an instrument with proper support and initiative, and spreading joy through music is her central goal of every lesson and performance. When the violin is in the case, Jessica can be found cooking, reading, and spending time in nature with her friends and family.