A legacy of musical influence begins when a performer makes a conscious effort to give the gift of time and knowledge to others. For many performers, organizing practice routines, rehearsals, concert schedules, and solo appearances leaves minimal, if any, time for teaching. Some individuals, however, find the energy and willpower to educate students in masterclass settings and private lessons while maintaining the highest standards of musical performance. Jeanne Baxtresser (b. 1947) is one of these people. She was principal flutist of the Montreal Symphony, Toronto Symphony, and New York Philharmonic Orchestras; she has taught at prestigious schools such as The Juilliard School, the Manhattan School of Music, Carnegie Mellon University, and the New England Conservatory of Music; she has presented masterclasses all over the world; and yet, very little has been written about her life and approach to music.

There are few scholarly sources available for researching Baxtresser's history. She has given interviews, which can be found in music magazines, but there is no detailed account of her accomplishments and successes. For that reason, she is the primary source for this research. Through interviews with Baxtresser, her husband, David H. Carroll, and her mother, Margaret Baxtresser, a compilation of her life and life's work developed. In addition, observation of her teaching private lessons, masterclasses, and lectures provided the material necessary for a summary of her pedagogical goals and techniques.

The document begins with the historical background that contributed to Baxtresser's musical path during her adolescence and into adulthood. Details of her family influences and her professional debut are included, as well as her experiences in three major North American orchestras and subsequent retirement from orchestral life to focus her energies on teaching. Photographs from her life are incorporated, and appendices include her partial discography, a listing of her publications, and information about her students who play and teach professionally throughout the world. The experiences Jeanne Baxtresser shares will benefit the young musician, the aspiring performer, the amateur music enthusiast, and music educators of all types.