On this episode of the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast, host Tom Needham welcomes 2025 Educator of Note Award recipient Edward (Ed) P Norris III for an inspiring conversation about music, mentorship, and the life-changing power of arts education. A passionate conductor, educator, and mentor, Norris reflects on the emotional high school experience that set him on the path toward music education, the philosophy that has guided his teaching career, and the profound impact music can have on students both inside and outside the classroom.
A Freeport native and longtime Smithtown resident, Ed Norris serves as Director of Choral Music at Glen Cove High School, where his ensembles have consistently earned Gold Medals and Gold Medals with Distinction at NYSSMA Major Ensemble festivals. He also directs the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra Nassau Chamber Chorale and teaches at Long Island University and the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College, where he earned his degrees under renowned conductor Dr. Lawrence Eisman. Under Norris’s leadership, the Glen Cove Select Chorale has performed at the White House for President Barack Obama, toured Italy and performed for Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica, appeared at major national choral conferences, and toured the United Kingdom in 2025.
The Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame Podcast features conversations with legendary musicians, actors, educators, filmmakers, and industry leaders connected to Long Island’s rich cultural legacy. Past guests have included Stephen Schwartz, Taylor Dayne, DMC, Garland Jeffreys, members of Twisted Sister, Public Enemy, and The Tokens. The podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.
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