A Living Jazz Legend, musician and composer David Baker has made a distinctive mark on the world of music in his nearly 60-year career—as player (chiefly on trombone and cello), composer, and educator. In this richly illustrated volume, Monika Herzig explores Baker's artistic legacy, from his days as a jazz musician in Indianapolis to his long-term gig as Distinguished Professor and Chairman of the Jazz Studies department at Indiana University. Baker's credits are striking: in the 1960s he was a member of George Russell's "out there" sextet and orchestra; by the 1980s he was in the jazz educator's hall of fame. His compositions have been recorded by performers as diverse as Dexter Gordon and Janos Starker, the Beaux Arts Trio, the Composer's String Quartet and the Czech Philharmonic. Featuring enlightening interviews with Baker and a CD of unreleased recordings and Baker compositions, this book brings a jazz legend into clear view.

In 1939, a 28-year-old Dutch immigrant opened a used book store in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Herman Baker filled his store with 500 books he had collected over the years, displaying them on homemade shelves. Seventy-five years later, his company has grown into one of the most influential Christian publishers in the world. Yet The Baker Book House Story is more than the story of one man's dream become reality. In its full-color pages is found the story of an independent, family-owned company dedicated to fulfilling its mission through many twists and turns over 75 years. This booklet provides a short history of Baker Book House Company and a delightful glimpse inside the Christian book business. It is a helpful look back and a hopeful look forward for a company whose best days are still ahead. Includes more than fifty photos.

First published in 2000. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.