Jennifer Baham

Professional Biography:
I graduated from Dordt College (Sioux Center, IA) in 1993 with a BA in K-12 Choral Music Education and an emphasis on Organ Performance and Liturgy. During college I accompanied for other music majors, played organ during campus chapel, and toured with the Dordt College band on French horn. Mr. Kosters interviewed me in 1994, and I answered God’s call to teach at San Jose Christian School. Over the years I have taught music, band, choir, Bible, geography, and grammar. I currently teach and lead the music department and support the drama department.

Personal Biography:
I was born and raised on Oskaloosa, Iowa with my parents, two sisters, and a host of farm animals. My dad was a dairyman with 160 acres. I am still a farm girl at heart and love gardening and hiking. I married Jeff in 1999. Jeff is a graphic designer with an art degree from San Jose State. In 2007, our daughter Camille Grace was born. Our family enjoys taking walks and being at the ocean.  We attend Church of the Chimes here in San Jose.

Christian Philosophy of Music Education:
I believe that music is essential to a well-rounded education for at least six reasons.  First, we are created musical beings—able to interpret, express, and develop sound.  Sound is all around us—it is an intricate part of God’s creation.   Second, music is a powerful way to communicate with our Creator.  Music is a means through which we can respond to God.  It is an avenue through which to praise Him.  Third, music is a powerful means of self-expression.  Fourth, in an increasingly impersonal society, music provides community.  Fifth, as in all areas of creation, there is potential to use our resources for good or for evil.  Studying music in a Christian environment gives children a positive environment in which to learn ways to use music for good.  Finally, statistics show that study of music at an early age increases critical thinking skills.  Music pulls together aesthetics and academics in a way that no other subject is able to do. I desire to open up this incredible area of study for SJCS students.  Through our lessons students will be better equipped to interpret, express and develop sound.  They will be exposed to music as communication to God.  They will have opportunity to share music with others.  Through the light of God’s word, each will evaluate the role of music in his own life as well as music’s role in society. Music is a subject that can be used for a lifetime.