Jennifer Baker is honored to rejoin the Chorale Board, having previously served as both a singer and Board member. A music educator and longtime arts advocate, Jennifer has taught thousands of students in the Saddleback Valley and Capistrano Unified School Districts. She holds degrees in Clarinet Performance and Music Education, and a master’s from CSU Fullerton.

Recognized for building strong music programs, from elementary to junior college and community ensembles, Jennifer has taught and conducted bands, choirs, and orchestras with a focus on excellence and accessibility. Her approach, grounded in pedagogical best practices, connects students with their family and school cultures, fostering not only musical literacy but a strong sense of community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she developed a popular virtual music room featuring hundreds of activities that continue to enhance student learning both in and out of the classroom.

Jennifer brings creativity and a passion for connecting people through innovative problem-solving. As a district leader, she restored an elementary instrument program, mentored beginning teachers, developed scheduling models to reduce (music) class size, and created many summer and intergenerational music events. Jennifer has served the Southern California Band and Orchestra Association as a board member, adjudicator, and presenter, hosting festivals and managing and leading local honor groups. She contributed generously to the Laguna Beach Unified School District as a PTA Reflections Arts Chair and later, judge, for this National program recognizing creativity expressed through original works of art.

Jennifer has been recognized with the Elementary Vocal Music Teacher of the Year and Irene Schoepfle Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Orange County Music and Arts Administrators, and the Arts Collaboration Award from the Laguna Beach Arts Alliance. She currently directs, performs in, and serves on the boards of several regional music organizations.