Adjunct Instructor of Music
Applied Jazz Guitar, Jazz Guitar Ensemble, Jazz Combos

Jazz guitarist Christopher Morrison holds a Masters of Music degree in Jazz Performance from the Conservatory of Music at SUNY Purchase and a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies from Western Connecticut State University.  Chris was fortunate to study with jazz guitarist Sal Salvador, arranger Bill Finegan, and Boston pianist, Charlie Banacos.

The son of jazz guitarist, Allen Morrison, Chris began performing early on with New Haven, CT jazz organists Richard McCrae, Bobby Buster, and Eddie Buster.  The training he received while working with these men made a lasting impression on Chris.  To this day, his playing and teaching style reflect the simple and practical approach that was used in his education. 

In 1990 Chris was hired by Western Connecticut State University as a jazz guitar instructor.  During his tenure at WCSU, Chris has also directed Jazz Guitar Ensembles and Jazz Combos.  Additionally, he teaches at Fairfield University, Naugatuck Valley Community College, the National Guitar Workshop, and the Western Connecticut State University Summer Music Camp.  In 2002, Western Connecticut State University honored Chris with a Centennial Award for Excellence as a distinguished alumnus. He was honored again in 2006 with a Distinguished Adjunct Appreciation Award.

Chris has recorded and or performed with Adam Nussbaum, Lew Soloff, John Patitucci, Chip Jackson, Harvie S, Brian Torff, Richie Cole, John Stowell, Joel Rosenblatt,  Ron Affif, and Ralph Lalama.  In 2003 Chris released his debut CD, “The Christopher Morrison Quartet”.  The CD features pianist: Robert Aries, bassist: Chip Jackson, and drummer: Bob Leonard.  Dr. Ken Ciuffreda of Just Jazz Guitar magazine says, “Chris produces one of the most beautiful sounds I have ever heard coaxed out of a jazz guitar—great phrasing, perfect musicality, warmth, and expression—all played effortlessly with seemingly unlimited technique.” 

Chris is an artist representative for Froc Fillipetti Guitars.  He currently leads his own trio as well as being an in-demand sideman.  For more information, or to see Chris’s performing schedule, please visit his website at www.morrisonguitar.com.

Contact: morrisonc@wcsu.edu