Robert M. Rucker

Jazz Musician/Music Educator/Teacher

Robert Rucker has recorded and performed with many notable artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Marcus Roberts, Wes Anderson, Wycliff Gordon, Herb Harris, Scotty Barnhart, Phillip Harper, Eric Lewis, Stephon Harris, Eddie Henderson, Sam and Dave, Steve Marley and Dead Prez. He has also produced music for Sony Pictures and performs with a jazz band called SwingSet Quintet. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Robert moved to Miami Florida where he attended grade school. At the tender age of three, Robert received a Mickey Mouse drumset for Christmas and hence began his wonderful musical journey. At Norland Jr/Sr High School, Robert became to learn how to read and notate music. He performed in the school band and participated in a variety of state music competitions where he received superior marks.

After graduating from High School, Robert attended Florida A&M University in Tallahasse, Florida. He was a member of the notable "The Marching 100" Marching Band and Jazz Ensemble. Robert later moved to Jacksonville, Florida and transferred to the University of North Florida where he received his B.A in Music. In 1995, Robert moved New York to attend graduate School at Manhattan School of Music. After graduation, Robert began to teach music in New York and New Jersey Public Schools.

Robert currently performs in New York with the jazz group "SwingSet Quintet"