Celebrating a Music Mentor Who Shaped Lives

Date & Location: March 20, Stony Brook
Award: Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame – 2025 Educator of Note
Ceremony Time: 6:30 p.m.

A Legacy of Sound

• Teacher & Conductor: Edward P. Norris III, Smithtown native and choral program director at Glen Cove High School.
• Career Span: Over 20 years shaping choir, theory, and advanced music courses.
• Additional Roles:
• Director of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra’s Nassau Chamber Chorale (20 years)
• Instructor at Long Island University

The Spark That Lit a Passion

• 1994 Moment: A German rendition of Silent Night moved an elderly woman to tears during a high‑school choir rehearsal.
• Result: Norris decided to pursue choral teaching, and he still performs the German version each holiday season as a tribute to its emotional power.

Humble Recognition

• Award Significance: 19th Long Island music teacher to receive this honor since the award’s inception in 2007.
• Norris’ View: The accolade is a gift to his students, not to himself.
• Family & Community: Proud husband, father, and conductor who keeps the spotlight on his students.

Highlights of a Distinguished Career

• International Performances: Students have performed at the White House, Rome, and for Pope Francis.
• Personal Touchstone: The story of a student named Josh discovering Mozart in his class remains the most memorable impact.
• Beyond Music: Enjoys family time, sports, travel, and coaching youth football—led his son’s team to a Suffolk County championship dubbed the “Super Bowl” moment for the family.

March 20 Celebration

• Program: Performances by former and current students from Glen Cove High School and the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra.
• Tickets: Include access to exhibits celebrating a teacher whose lifelong work has shaped many young musicians.