The University of South Carolina School of Music's Professor Robert Pruzin has announced his plans to retire from USC in May 2014.

Currently serving in three roles for the School of Music as associate dean, professor of horn and director of undergraduate studies, Pruzin will have served the University of South Carolina for 36 years at the conclusion of the academic year in May 2014. Prior to his work at USC, Pruzin served on the University of Alabama faculty and as a public school teacher in upstate New York. He also served four years in the United States Marine Band, The President's Own.

School of Music Dean Tayloe Harding said, "Bob Pruzin has not only been a model faculty member, colleague and friend during his distinguished career as horn professor, he has also been the model teacher, mentor and music professional for his students to emulate. The evidence of this is profound -- a list of outstanding and high-achieving alumni in virtually every walk of life, including some of the finest and most loyal graduates in the history of the USC School of Music. Bob's commitment to excellence in all he has done here has made a significant impact on the development of our school -- from his enormous contributions to the administrative function of our music unit in his role as associate dean, to the immeasurable leadership he's displayed by advising every undergraduate who has entered our doors for many years as director of undergraduate studies, to the unparalleled quality of his teaching and performing in numerous chamber and orchestral ensembles throughout the world and most especially our region, including the SC Philharmonic. Bob represents precisely what being a great professional musician is. I am delighted that some of the seminal impact he has had on the School in his 36 seasons will continue into his retirement -- that most poignantly includes continuing to serve as an inspiration for our young musicians for years to come."

Special events celebrating Professor Pruzin and his impact on music students and alumni will be planned and announced as information is available.