Jalen Baker is a vibraphonist, percussionist, educator and composer whose early training involved both classical and jazz genres. He decided early on to focus on jazz and, in May 2017, received his BA in Jazz Studies from Columbia College Chicago. While matriculating at Columbia College, Jalen studied with percussionist Jarrett Hicks. Jalen was accepted as a Graduate Assistant in the Jazz Performance program at Florida State University, and, in May 2019, received his MM in Jazz Studies. Since graduating from Florida State University in 2019, Jalen has continued to distinguish himself as a performer and was chosen as a Ravinia Jazz Fellow in 2018 where he studied with Rufus Reid, Billy Childs and Tim Haggins. He has been an active performer with The Ulysses Owens Jr, Jeremy Pelt, Mwenso and The Shakes, Leon Anderson, Amina Scott quartets as well as leading his own band in venues in and around Georgia, Florida, Texas and Chicago. As a band leader, Jalen has also been awarded the prestigious South Arts Jazz Roads Touring Grant. He has been the featured artist with various organizations such as the Savannah Jazz Orchestra, Houston’s Da Camera, Miami’s WDNA Jazz Hour, Modern Marimba and Live Music Movement Houston. Since 2021, Jalen has released two albums: This is Me, This is Us on Outside In Music in June of 2021, and Be Still on Cellar Live in July of 2023, both of which have garnered recognition by various jazz blogs and magazines such as Textura, Making a Scene, Jazziz and Downbeat.

Currently living in Houston, Jalen continues to compose and perform. His unique blend of original modern jazz compositions and jazz standards make for exciting live performances.

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