"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."

Beginning his study of the piano at 5 and giving his first public recital two years later, Blocker says that he usually practiced early in the morning or late at night when he was dean, trying to find his own balance between being an academic leader and a pianist.

"People ask me why do you still play? I would say that is a part of who I am. I learn one new piece every year because I don't want to repeat the old ones. My brain needs to work along with my fingers," he says.

Blocker attributes his passion for music to his piano teacher when he was first learning to play. Describing the teacher as someone who had the biggest influence on his life, Blocker says that she taught him how to love music.

He recalls that when he gave a public performance at the age of 7, he played The Wild Horseman by Schumann. He played fast and loud.

The piano teacher asked him why he played that way. He said it was because the piece was called The Wild Horseman.

She then asked him what color the horse was, who was riding it, and whether the rider was wearing a hat.

"She asked me lots of questions and said, 'your responsibility is not just to look at the title but also to portray images with the music'," Blocker recalls. "She told me to think broadly and deeply as a pianist. It became like a seed growing in me, which I wasn't aware of.

"I want to tell young students who are learning music the same thing," he adds.

For decades, Blocker has witnessed the fast development of China and its exciting classical music scene, where young people learn to play musical instruments and new concert halls are popping up. He also notes that digital technology helps popularize classical music, allowing young musicians to be seen and heard by a wider audience.

Retiring from his position as dean, Blocker says that his personal friendship with China will continue to grow.

"Those great friendships I have made through my journeys are a wealth to me," he says.

Contact the writer at chennan@chinadaily.com.cn