Greenville Professor Christopher Hutton Receives 2024 SCICU Excellence In Teaching Award

Music enthusiasts in Greenville are celebrating the recognition of Furman University’s own Professor Christopher Hutton, who has been honored with the 2024 South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) Excellence In Teaching Award. Hutton, a dedicated professor in the Department of Music, was presented with this esteemed award at a ceremony held in Columbia on April 9.

An Inspiring Educator and Musician

With an impressive background in music education and performance, Professor Christopher Hutton brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role at Furman University. Specializing in applied cello, string chamber music, and music history and literature, Hutton is known for his passion for teaching and mentorship.

Not only does Hutton excel in the classroom, but he also extends his educational impact beyond campus through travel and performance opportunities. As co-director of study-away programs, he has led students on enriching trips to various European countries and will soon be embarking on a journey to New York City’s Metropolitan Opera with a group of students.

Outside of his teaching responsibilities, Hutton is an accomplished cellist, serving as a vital member of the Greenville-based Poinsett Piano Trio and regularly performing with the South Carolina Bach and the Greenville Symphony. His dedication to music extends to his project “Reflecting Bach,” where he explores the works of J.S. Bach alongside compositions from modern-day composers.

A Legacy of Excellence

Joining the faculty at Furman University in 2003, Professor Christopher Hutton has made a lasting impact on the campus community and beyond. Prior to his time at Furman, Hutton held teaching positions at esteemed institutions such as the University of Rochester, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, the University of Delaware, and the Eastern Music Festival.

Hutton’s academic journey includes earning a doctorate and master’s degree in musical arts from the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music, as well as a Bachelor of Music degree in cello performance from Boston University. Throughout his education, he studied under renowned mentors Leslie Parnas, Paul Katz, and Steven Doane, refining his skills and artistic vision.

Recognition and Appreciation

The SCICU Excellence In Teaching Award is a testament to Professor Christopher Hutton’s dedication to his students, his craft, and the field of music education. His commitment to excellence and his unwavering passion for music have inspired countless individuals and enriched the cultural landscape of Greenville and beyond.

As Hutton continues to shape the minds of future musicians and scholars, his impact will be felt for years to come, leaving a legacy of musical excellence and educational innovation at Furman University.