ABOUT ROBERT
Robert Gilliam is a prodigious saxophonist and composer from Dallas, TX. His artistic journey began as a classical cellist, but he discovered the saxophone at the age of 15. Since then, Robert has devoted himself to mastering this instrument, venturing into the realms of music production, rap, and a dedication to advancing Black American Music.
Robert Gilliam was granted a full tuition scholarship to the prestigious Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University, where he studied with the great Tim Green, Sean Jones, Warren Wolf, and many more. This institution recognized his extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication, paving the way for him to pursue his musical aspirations at the highest level. Currently, Robert continues to hone his craft at the Juilliard School.
A seasoned performer, Robert has graced stages around the world, sharing his talent alongside musicians such as Bobby Watson, Bobby Broom, Sean Jones, Tim Green, Brandon Woody, Frank Lacy, Ameen Saleem, Quincy Phillips, Kris Funn, Marshall Gilkes, and Christian McBride, Grammy-nominated composer and arranger Darcy James Argue, Brandon Sanders, and Stewart Goodyear (with the Chineke! Orchestra.)
Robert's passion and unwavering commitment have garnered him numerous accolades, including the Stevie Ray Vaughan Scholarship, first place in the Ribelin Scale and Etude Competition, he has had the privilege of participating in the acclaimed Thelonious Monk Jazz Ambassadors program, as well as receiving the Richard Franko Goldman Prize In Performance. Additionally, he has graced the stage of the Thelonious Monk Institute's Piano Competition and achieved first place in the combo division of the Next Gen Jazz Festival.
Embracing a philosophy that art should be accessible to all for growth and healing, Robert pushes the boundaries of his creativity. He explores various musical styles and draws inspiration from diverse experiences, utilizing triumphs and challenges to refine his craft. With an unwavering dedication to nurturing the next generation of artists, Robert aspires to ignite a flame of inspiration within young minds, empowering them to create their extraordinary musical journeys.
