Bruce Evans Hutton

Bruce Evans Hutton, 77, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, in Kemp Mill, Maryland. A lifelong musician and educator, Bruce dedicated his life to sharing the joy and history of old time string band music with audiences of all ages.

Born on November 28, 1948, in Dover, Massachusetts, Bruce was the son of Ruth and Will Hutton. He attended high school at the Cambridge School in Massachusetts before continuing his education at Hiram College in Ohio. It was during these formative years that Bruce’s passion for music began to take root—a passion that would shape the course of his life.

Bruce was a professional Old time string band and folk musician whose career spanned decades. He performed with several acclaimed musical groups including Double Decker Stringband and Hesperus Crossover, among others. In addition to his ensemble work, he enjoyed a successful solo career and recorded numerous albums that celebrated the rich heritage of American Old Time folk traditions.

Beyond performance, Bruce found deep purpose in education. His primary livelihood came from bringing engaging musical assemblies to schools across the country. Through these programs, he introduced generations of students to the history and joy of traditional folk music. He also offered private lessons in ukulele, dulcimer, and banjo—mentoring countless aspiring musicians with patience and care.

Bruce’s creativity extended beyond music. He enjoyed fishing and spent many peaceful hours by the water. He also had a talent for crafting and making art—often creating things with his hands that reflected both whimsy and care. Those who knew him will remember not only his artistry but also his famously bad sense of humor. Bruce delighted in telling “dad jokes”—often repeating them until they became family lore. The worse the joke, the more he laughed—and so did everyone else. A kind-hearted soul with strong moral convictions and devout pacifist, he truly marched to the beat of his own drum—choosing a path guided not by convention but by conviction.

Bruce is lovingly remembered by his eldest son Daniel Hutton; younger son Ethan Hutton; daughter-in-law Deborah Hutton; grandchildren Max Hutton and Jacob Hutton; sister Heidi Williams; and brother James Hutton. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Debbie Hutton and by his parents Ruth and Will Hutton.

May Bruce’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire future generations through the music he so dearly loved. A Funeral will be held on December 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Temple Shalom 8401 Grubb Rd. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Folklore Society of Greater Washington in Bruce’s Honor.