Tim Baek: A Journey From Global Roots To Musical Leadership By: Joy Lilayon Katete

From China to Malaysia to Abilene, Hardin-Simmons University (HSU) alumnus Tim Baek has let music guide his path. Born in China to South Korean missionary parents, Baek grew up in Malaysia before coming to Texas to pursue his passion for music.

Baek said his decision to attend HSU came down to three factors: the university’s size, the World-Famous Cowboy Band, and scholarship opportunities. “My high school was quite small, so I wanted a small college environment,” Baek said. “I was also drawn to the World-Famous Cowboy Band because of its unique marching style. I didn’t have to learn the traditional form of marching, which made it even more appealing.”

Baek found his footing at HSU through two communities—the Global Engagement Office and the World-Famous Cowboy Band. “GE helped me understand the logistics of living in the United States,” Baek said. “And the Cowboy Band helped me embrace HSU’s culture. Being around such energetic members really helped me step out of my introverted shell.”

During his time at HSU, two professors shaped his musical direction: Jay Lester, director of bands, and Dr. Jeff Cottrell, director of jazz studies.

Lester first met Baek before joining the HSU faculty, during the Cowboy Band’s 100th Anniversary Concert in spring 2023. “Tim is an outstanding percussionist but also has the ability to learn new instruments quickly,” Lester said. “His willingness to help others made him a valuable member of the band program at HSU.”

That connection proved pivotal. “In my senior year, I took a conducting course under Mr. Lester,” Baek said. “It wasn’t required for my degree, but I fell in love with conducting and decided to pursue it further.”

After graduating from HSU, Baek taught band in Seagraves before returning to school. He now serves as a graduate teaching assistant at Stephen F. Austin State University studying instrumental conducting.

“Tim continues to support HSU and the Cowboy Band as an alumnus,” Lester said. “He is kind, helpful, and truly Christ-like in the way he lives and serves others.”