The dean of Admissions of Berklee College of Music recently announced the acceptance of Stephen Baker as a candidate for a bachelor of music degree, starting in the September 2010 fall semester. Baker, a senior at Orcas Island Christian School, calls Berklee the school “of his dreams,” and speaks of the amazing teachers and musicians on Orcas Island who helped make it possible.

Baker credits his music instructors, experience playing in church, high school band, Community

Band, Funhouse music programs and years of practice for his ultimate success at the single, half

hour audition last December that resulted in his admission to Berklee.

His parents agree.

“Stephen benefited from the investment of so many fine musicians and educators who gave their time and put their energy into sharing their own love of music with him,” his mom said. “We are so proud of him, and very grateful to all of them. It was definitely a group effort!”

Added Baker, “I could not have gotten here without all of them, especially my parents, who supported every musical step I wanted to take.”

Baker will head east this fall, guitar in hand, to start his next adventure at the renowned music

conservatory in Boston.