Sarah Joy McClain
Sarah Joy McClain, a passionate music educator and worship leader, was raised in Baytown, Texas. Her journey into the world of music began at East Texas Baptist University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a vocal concentration. Her thirst for knowledge led her to Loyola University, where she pursued graduate studies in Music Therapy for a short time.
Sarah's career in music education took off at the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts, where she taught piano, guitar, and voice. Recognizing a need for affordable music education in the New Orleans area, she founded Joyful Noise Music Lessons in Slidell, Louisiana. Her commitment to making music accessible didn't stop at state lines. When she moved to Puerto Rico, she continued to teach a variety of instruments, including piano, guitar, voice, and ukulele.
Upon returning to her hometown of Baytown, Sarah transitioned into the public education system. She has taught a range of subjects and grades, from elementary music to 5th grade math and ELAR, and 2nd grade. Currently, she is sharing her love for music with middle school students as a choir teacher in Goose Creek CISD.
In addition to her work in the classroom, Sarah has been serving as the worship leader at Baker Road Baptist Church since 2020. Through her work, she continues to inspire and educate, spreading the joy of music wherever she goes.
Harry Alan Barber
Harry Alan Barber, an Oklahoma native, has spent his life immersed in art. After earning his Bachelor's Degree, he dedicated 20 years to inspiring young minds as an art teacher at Carver Elementary.
Beyond teaching, Harry's artistic talents shine through in his murals, notably the one gracing the children's hall at Baker Road Baptist Church. He also transforms ordinary rocks into unique pieces of art, selling his creations to many admirers.
Harry's love for his community is evident in his annual contribution to his church's pumpkin patch, where he delights attendees with his face painting skills. His life, like his art, is a testament to the power of passion and creativity.
Madeline Crandall
Madeline, a Houston-based dancer and choreographer, is currently on a journey to further deepen her understanding of dance. She is pursuing an associate's degree in Dance and a Certificate of Technology in Dance Education at San Jacinto College. Under the guidance of Jennifer Salter and Jamie Williams, she is honing her skills and expanding her knowledge of dance.
With an impressive 18 years of dance experience under her belt, Madeline has explored a variety of styles. Her repertoire includes ballet, lyrical, jazz, contemporary, and modern dance. However, she has a particular affinity for modern and contemporary dance, where she applies her ballet-based technique.
Madeline's passion for dance is evident in her commitment to her craft. Whether she's performing a graceful ballet routine or creating an expressive contemporary piece, she brings a unique blend of skill, creativity, and emotion to every performance. Her journey in dance is not just about mastering the steps, but about telling stories and connecting with audiences through movement.
Nathan Shell
Nathan Shell, a talented musician hailing from Baytown, Texas, discovered his love for music in an unconventional setting - the cab of an 18-wheeler. As a young child, he would accompany his father on long road trips, where the rhythm of the road and the melodies on the radio sparked his passion for music.
Nathan's musical journey took root in the church. At the tender age of 12, he began playing guitar for worship teams, showcasing a talent and dedication far beyond his years. Over time, he expanded his musical repertoire to include the drums, further enhancing his contributions to the worship team.
Today, Nathan continues to serve his community through music at Baker Road Baptist Church. As a vocalist and drummer on the worship team, he uses his musical talents to uplift and inspire. His love for music, born in the cab of an 18-wheeler and nurtured in the heart of the church, continues to resonate with every note he plays.
Jordan Johnson
Born into a family of musicians, Jordan Johnson was immersed in music from a young age. From the lively rhythms of Cajun bluegrass to the soulful melodies of country music and the uplifting harmonies of worship music, he was surrounded by a diverse array of musical influences. This exposure sparked a passion in Jordan, not just for playing music, but for helping other musicians hone their skills and grow.
Jordan's deep understanding of various musical genres, combined with his exceptional ear training skills, sets him apart in the music world. He is driven by a thirst for knowledge and a desire to continually improve his craft.
For several years, Jordan played the keyboard for Baker Road Baptist Church, sharing his musical talents with the congregation. Now, he's taken on a new role as the church's audio technician. Leveraging his ear training skills, he ensures that every note, every chord, and every voice is heard clearly and beautifully, enhancing the worship experience for all.