It was a warm evening in August in 1995. Robert Blocker was driving to Yale University after being appointed as the university’s Dean (院长) of Music. He didn’t expect to see many people, but a couple of students met him and showed him around.

“When I looked at the history of the university and how people are devoted to the school’s art programs, I was honored by the chance to work there. I could not wait for the next day to start my job. And that excitement never changed because every day was different. My job as dean was not scheduled. I walked around the campus and students talked to me. I went to rehearsals (排演) by the students and teachers and got inspired by them,” he adds.

After nearly three decades as the Dean of Music at Yale, the 77-year-old retired from the position on Aug 31. Also an expert pianist, he remains a professor of piano at the music school, as well as professor of leadership strategies at Yale School of Management. Among his countless contributions as dean, Blocker developed long-term relationships with fellow musicians in China. He once toured cities, including Shenzhen, Shanghai and Hangzhou, giving lectures to the youngsters.

“China is a very special place for me. I am very happy to be back after the pandemic (疫情) to meet my friends and colleagues,” Blocker says, adding that he is particularly excited about being with young students.

Yang Suxian, director of the Shenzhen Piano Music Festival, says, “He has been very supportive and has participated in the Shenzhen Piano Music Festival for years, even during the pandemic.”

Blocker’s vision of a more hopeful world is reflected in his belief that music bridges the understanding between people.

“Music brings hope. People may speak different languages and have different ideas but music speaks to each other’s heart, and that’s why we keep this work going on and why the work never ends,” he says, “Our job is to let music heal the world by allowing us to understand and find a common place in our hearts.”

【小题1】How did Robert Blocker feel after being appointed as the university’s Dean?

A．Anxious.

B．Thrilled.

C．Terrified.

D．Challenged.

【小题2】What is included in Robert Blocker’s work at Yale?

A．Teaching leadership skills.	B．Reviving art programs of the school.
C．Giving concerts when touring cities in China.	D．Organizing rehearsals for students and teachers.

【小题3】What is the author’s purpose in mentioning Yang Suxian’s words?

A．To advertise the festival in Shenzhen.	B．To stress Robert’s preference for music.
C．To review the hardships during the pandemic.	D．To show Robert’s care about Chinese musicians.

【小题4】What do we know about musicians’ job from the last paragraph?

A．Spreading music to the whole world.

B．Translating music into a common language.

C．Helping people to reach an agreement on music.

D．Guiding people to know themselves better through music.