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Drew Baker is a contemporary classical music composer who was born in 1978 in the United States. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a jazz pianist and his mother a singer. Baker started playing the piano at a young age and later learned to play the guitar and drums. He was also interested in electronic music and started experimenting with synthesizers and computer software. Baker attended the University of North Texas, where he studied music composition and theory. He later earned a Master of Music degree from the University of Louisville and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. During his studies, Baker was influenced by the works of contemporary composers such as György Ligeti, Morton Feldman, and Brian Ferneyhough. Baker's compositions are known for their complex structures and use of extended techniques. He often incorporates electronic sounds and field recordings into his works, creating a unique blend of acoustic and electronic elements. His music has been performed by ensembles such as the Arditti Quartet, the JACK Quartet, and the Ensemble Dal Niente. One of Baker's early works is "The Same Stream Twice" for string quartet, which was composed in 2006. The piece is based on the idea of repetition and variation, with the same musical material being presented in different ways throughout the work. The piece was premiered by the Arditti Quartet and has since been performed by other ensembles around the world. In 2010, Baker composed "Quartet No. 2" for the JACK Quartet. The piece is divided into four movements, each exploring different textures and timbres. The work features extended techniques such as harmonics, glissandi, and pizzicato, and also incorporates electronic sounds. Baker's "Quartet No. 3" was composed in 2012 and premiered by the Mivos Quartet. The piece is structured around a series of chords, which are presented in different ways throughout the work. The piece also features electronic sounds and field recordings, creating a haunting and atmospheric effect. In 2014, Baker composed "The Glass Abattoir" for the Ensemble Dal Niente. The piece is inspired by the writings of French philosopher Michel Foucault and explores the themes of power and control. The work features a large ensemble, including winds, brass, percussion, and strings, and also incorporates electronic sounds and field recordings. Baker's most recent work is "Quartet No. 4," which was composed in 2018 and premiered by the JACK Quartet. The piece is divided into three movements, each exploring different textures and timbres. The work features extended techniques such as microtones, multiphonics, and bowing on the bridge, creating a complex and intricate sound world. Baker's compositions have been praised for their originality and complexity. His use of extended techniques and electronic sounds creates a unique sonic landscape that challenges the listener's expectations. His works have been performed at festivals such as the Darmstadt Summer Course, the MATA Festival, and the June in Buffalo Festival. In addition to his work as a composer, Baker is also a professor of music composition at the University of Georgia. He has taught at several universities throughout the United States and has been a guest lecturer at institutions around the world. He is also a member of the American Composers Forum and the Society of Composers, Inc.

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