Ryan Hutcherson, known to many as DJ Hutch, is Harrison’s newest choir teacher. Even after only a few months teaching here, he has already made such a positive impact on his students.
“I have him as a drama director, and he is one of the chillest guys I know. He’ll keep you on task but he’s not afraid to have fun. Having him up in the booth just for one day was super fun and he wasn’t afraid to laugh out loud for the funny parts. Great guy, amazing teacher, no complaints!” says a fellow Wildcat about Mr Hutcherson.
Another student remarks, “Despite how new he is to our school, Mr. Hutcherson has already shown so much passion and care to Harrison choirs. He is incredibly organized and always has a plan for his students to do something fun every day. Even with it being early in the school year, Mr. Hutcherson has already shown his skills in music and teaching to all of us. We love him!”
It’s fair to say that Hutch is not only an amazing teacher, but also an overall positive and upbeat person that is already beloved by the Harrison community. Now without further ado, here is a Q/A from DJ Hutch himself!
What inspired you to pursue music?
My choir director inspired me to pursue music. I love helping people and I love music, so combining those two just felt natural for music education.
What brought you to Harrison, and what are your thoughts on this school so far?
I live in Dent, and the drive is less than 15 minutes. I was so drawn to this school for the clear passion the students and staff displayed for the arts. Theater and A Cappella are big things to me, and I am glad Harrison agrees. There is a lot of potential, and it’s been nice to be a part of a community that is very driven and where students take a lot of initiative.
Is it true you are a DJ? Can you tell us more about this gig?
I am a DJ and I DJ all sorts of events as a side gig. I have been a DJ for weddings, homecomings, proms, dances, anniversaries and more. I have been doing it ever since I first started teaching. I asked my first district for some sound equipment and said I would DJ in exchange, and I ended up falling in love with it!
What is the most special teaching experience you’ve had?
I have had a lot of special teaching moments, but I think the one that was most needed was during COVID teaching. It felt almost impossible to help people connect through music during that time. We made a music video of the song “I see stars” from the musical Mean Girls. That had a big impact on our students and community. It was featured in our local news station and even gathered the attention of one of the Broadway cast members of “Mean girls” who sent us a video congratulating us. Seeing my students’ efforts extend to impact beyond just their self was huge and a gratifying, positive experience during such a hard time.
What is your favorite song of all time?
A favorite song? As tough as that is, the two standouts for me are Amazing Grace, and Fix You by Coldplay. Favorite songs are like the seasons that can change for me depending on the day. Music and the arts are extension of what we are going through in life, so it’s only natural that it changes. The two I mentioned are songs that seem to routinely reoccur for me.
Where did you learn how to breakdance?
I grew up in a performing arts high school at Glen Este High School (now West Clermont High School). We had the chance to take dance classes during the day. I danced a variety of styles from Ballet to lyrical to hip hop. I would not say that I know how to “Breakdance” but a move I know is called the “Coffee grinder” which I learned from my dance classes growing up.
Harrison is thrilled to have DJ Hutch as such an important part of our team!
