Robert Blocker was born on April 9, 1946, in Texas. He grew up in a musical household, with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Albert Blocker, encouraging his passion for music from a young age. Blocker's talent for the piano became evident early on, and he began formal lessons at an early age.
He attended Furman University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1968. It was during his time at Furman that Blocker truly honed his skills as a pianist and established a deep understanding of music theory and composition. He then went on to pursue a Master of Music degree, which he obtained in 1970. Blocker continued his education at the University of North Texas College of Music, where he earned his Doctorate of Musical Arts in 1972.
In July 1995, Blocker was appointed as the Dean of the Yale School of Music, a position he would hold for many years. In addition to serving as Dean, Blocker also took on the role of Professor of Piano at Yale and was an Adjunct Professor of Management. His leadership and expertise in music education significantly impacted the school, helping to shape the next generation of musicians and composers.
During his tenure at Yale, Blocker also took a brief hiatus to serve as the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Southern Methodist University in Dallas from 2005 to 2006. This experience allowed him to further expand his knowledge of academic administration and provided valuable insights that he brought back to his role at Yale.
Throughout his career, Blocker has been influenced by many notable figures in the music world. His piano professor at the University of North Texas College of Music, Richard Brannan Cass, had studied with famed composer and teacher Nadia Boulanger at the National School of Music of Paris. This connection to such a legendary figure in music history undoubtedly impacted Blocker's own approach to teaching and performing.
Aside from his professional accomplishments, Blocker is also a devoted family man. He values the support and encouragement of his parents, who instilled in him a love of music from a young age. Their guidance and influence helped shape Blocker into the accomplished musician and educator he is today.
As a pianist, Blocker has performed in prestigious venues around the world, showcasing his incredible talent and passion for music. His dedication to his craft and commitment to advancing music education have made him a respected figure in the music community.
Overall, Robert Blocker's career has been defined by his unwavering dedication to music and education. His contributions to the field of music have left a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues, solidifying his legacy as a true pioneer in the world of music education.