We are deeply saddened by the passing on June 9, 2026 of Canadian composer, pianist, and organist, Ruth Watson Henderson, ARCT (1949), LRCT (1951), Hon FRCCO (2003).

Ms. Watson Henderson made her professional debut in Toronto in 1952 as a concert pianist, frequently appearing as soloist with Canadian orchestras. Throughout her long career she was accompanist with the Toronto Children’s Chorus, under Jean Ashworth Bartle, accompanist with the Festival Singers under Elmer Iseler, and Director of Music at Kingsway-Lambton United Church in Toronto.

Internationally acclaimed for her prolific body of choral works, Ms. Watson Henderson also wrote for piano, organ, violin, trumpet, and string orchestra. Her organ work, "Celebration", won a worldwide competition honouring the Royal Canadian College of Organists’ Centennial, and was premiered at Westminster Abbey. 

Recognized for her lifelong service to music, Ms. Watson Henderson was the recipient of many awards, including an Hon. FRCCO with the Royal Canadian College of Organists, the Choirs Ontario Distinguished Service Award, and most recently, the King Charles III Coronation Medal.