In Memory of Nora Henson
The GDCS community mourns the passing of Nora Henson (1955–2025), a beloved conductor and teacher.
Ms. Henson served as Youth Chorus conductor from 2004 to 2024. Her musical leadership and deep commitment left a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues, both in the chorus and among high school students she taught in Plano ISD, college students she taught at SMU, and teachers she mentored across the state.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 10 at 1:00 p.m. at Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration in Dallas, Texas. A reception will follow in Roper Hall.
We celebrate the impact of her life and work, and the many lives she touched through her artistry and dedication. May her music, teaching, and spirit of generosity continue to inspire all who had the privilege to learn from her.
Read Ms. Henson’s full obituary from her family below.
Nora Henson passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025. Although her time with us was too short, she managed to fill every day of her life with purpose, meaning, love, and joy.
Nora received her Bachelor of Music at the University of Oklahoma and her Master of Arts in Conducting from Sam Houston State University under the tutelage of her father- Dr. B.R. Henson. Nora kept up her quest for learning throughout her career as she always honed and refined her skills and learned new and challenging music. During her tenure at Plano Senior High School, the choral music program expanded dramatically. Under her effective pedagogy, the program distinguished itself by superb performance and an excellent repertoire that spans the ages. Her Plano Senior High School groups were invited to perform for the American Choral Directors Association and the Texas Music Educators Association. After 24 years of teaching choral music to sixth through twelfth grade students, Nora received her Certification in Secondary School Counseling from the University of North Texas. She worked as a Guidance Counselor in Plano ISD for thirteen years.
One of her most profound accomplishments was founding the Youth Chorus in 2004. She was deeply committed to the Youth Chorus of the Greater Dallas Choral Society and devoted so much of her time and talents selflessly. Her dedication to the everlasting beauty of fine music will continue to be an influence on the lives of countless musicians.
In 2016, Nora became an Adjunct Associate Professor at Southern Methodist University where she taught Choral Conducting, Vocal Techniques, Choral Methods and Choral Practicum. Throughout her career, she has served as a clinician, consultant, and adjudicator for music teachers, conductors, and singers throughout Texas. Nora’s greatest fulfillments came from assisting her students to succeed in their own pursuits.
A Memorial service will be held in her honor on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration at 1:00 pm. It will be followed by a reception in Roper Hall.
Because of Nora’s great love for the young singers of the Youth Chorus, the family requests that donations be made to the Greater Dallas Choral Society at 11211 Preston Rd., Dallas, TX 75230. Donations may also be made online at dallaschoralsociety.org.