2021 David N. Baker Jazz Prize Awarded

Garrett Fasig, Recipient of the 2021 David N. Baker Jazz Composition Scholarship

The BMI Foundation, in partnership with Indiana University (IU) Jacobs School of Music, has selected Garrett Fasig as the winner of the 2021 David N. Baker Jazz Composition Scholarship, named in honor of the revered jazz musician, educator, and founder of IU’s Jazz Studies program. Fasig was presented with the $2,500 award by BMI Jazz Director Patrick Cook. 

“It’s really exciting to have been selected by the faculty here at Jacob’s School of Music and a huge honor to receive an award bearing David Bakers name. I’m excited to continue working with my peers and the faculty here at IU to learn and write as much as I can!.” said Fasig

The David N. Baker Jazz Composition Scholarship is presented annually to a full-time junior, senior, or graduate Jazz Studies candidate at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. Established in 2015 through the generosity of BMI Foundation Advisory Panelist Robbin Ahrold, the award commemorates the iconic achievements of the late composer, performer, educator, and IU Jazz Studies program founder, David N. Baker. Recipients are chosen based on academic and artistic record. Candidates must demonstrate excellence in writing significant original work in the jazz idiom.

Garrett Fasig is a jazz saxophonist and composer currently studying at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. During his time there he has written and recorded music with the Brent Wallarab Jazz Ensemble, John Raymond Ensemble, Greg Ward Large ensemble, and the Plummer Jazz Quintet. He has also had the opportunity to perform alongside world-class musicians including Walter Smith III, Oliver Nelson Jr., Dayna Stephens, and Steve Houghton. Garrett graduated in 2021 with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies and is continuing his education at Indiana University pursuing a Masters of Music.