Mike Baker started learning to play drum kit at the age of eleven and by the age of twelve was in huge demand on the Southend music scene both as a pop drummer and with the local music societies. At the age of fifteen he became the youngest full time student at Trinity College of Music in London under the tutorage of Louis (Titch.) Pocock, who was the Principal Timpanist with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and Denis Brady, Principal Percussionist with the B.B.C. Concert Orchestra.

On leaving Music College, Titch Pocock asked Mike to take over from him as Principal Timpanist with the Orchestra. He held this post until 2004.

During his time with the Orchestra he also played as a freelance Percussionist on music and film sessions, which he still continues to do to this day. Mike also runs his own highly successful swing band