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Samuel Goldfarb Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Samuel Goldfarb
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Edward Gosselin
September 28, 2022
I looked up Sam today, probably because if the hurricane about to hit Florida. He died in 2008, fourteen years ago.
Sam was a great band conductor both at Rockville High School and at the Hart School of Music. During my high school years 19:57-61 we had great concerts, won band competitions, and Sam drove me to DC when I was in the All-Eastern Band.
I loved the dances at RHS, because Sam would play trumpet in a small combo, and his playing was smooth and beautiful.
Mr. G was a wonderful man and had continued to inspire my life even as a professor of History at Cal State Long Beach until my own retirement in 2003.
I am sure he is leading the band of the heavenly hosts.
Ed Gosselin, RHS 1961
Bob Goodberg
August 18, 2022
Although I just learned of Sam's death 14 years later, I wanted to add a few thoughts. I was an East Hartford High School flutist who played in the Hartt Youth Symphonic Band under Sam's direction. He was an excellent director/conductor: demanding, inspiring, fun, and kind. He gave me the wonderful opportunity to conduct the band during my senior year. I went on to perform professionally and know that his musicianship and inspiration encouraged that pursuit.
Peter Kramer
January 1, 2016
My condolences to the Goldfarb family and friends -- Peter Kramer, Bloomfield High School bands C/O 1990
June (Aylward) Hopper
January 24, 2009
I am truly sadden over just finding out about Mr. G's passing. He was an inspiration and one of the best teachers I had throughout high school. He taught us so much, not only music but life skills. I have the most wonderful memories of band. We worked hard under his direction. It was well worth it in the end to put on a great performance and make him proud! I still have visions of the banner I remember on the band wall..."Procrastination is the Ruination of mankind." He was a great man and will be missed. I am so sorry for your loss. (I played flute and piccolo, RHS Band 1968-1972)
Phil Skoglund
September 16, 2008
There is little I can add to what has been said but I want to add extra emphasis to every positive that has been expressed. RHS was a wonderful place with many wonderful staff members but Mr. G was one of the elite! There is a remarkable joy in learning from one with a real passion for what is being taught. What great memories of "Lassus Trombones", "The Marriage of Figaro", and other great repertoire - unmatched in any other group except, of course with Mr. G. at the Hartt Youth Symphonic Band - and remember the marching holidays!
As an educator myself, I have used the band room admonition "Results, not Alibis" innumerable times. Sam coupled high expectations with a visible love and commitment to the group and the individuals in it.
Thank you, Mr. G.
Trombone - class of 1965
Ed and Pat Dowdell
September 16, 2008
Maureen and family, Our very deepest condolences to each of you. Sam will be missed. He was a soft spoken man with a ready wit and a calm personality. It was my pleasure to play golf with Sam and I will miss his company. God Bless - Love Pat and Ed Dowdell
Robert Lee
September 9, 2008
Every time I walked off the stage after a concert conducted by Sam Goldfarb, my tuba under my arm sheet music in the other hand, I felt something. Something inspiring, uplifting, something good - spiritual a feeling only musicians feel and share with one another. Most of the public saw Sam from the back as he conducted his bands, but we the musicians were the lucky ones to see his face, his eyes, his hands and sometimes his entire body expressing what he wanted from us musically as he connected with each and every one of us. This is how I will always remember Sam, his inspiration I will carry with me forever.
I still perfom today in 3 different bands playing the bass guitar, and I have just recently purchased a tuba. So now I will be getting back into playing the tuba and practicing, practicing, practicing. I still have the "Go home and practice." button he gave me, I treasure it dearly along with many fond memories.
To his family and loved ones, Sam is in my thoughts and prayers. He truly was the leader of the band.
Rockville High School Class of 1967
Hartt Youth Symphonic Band
Hartt College Alumni
Janet Landeen
September 9, 2008
Mr. G. was one of those influential teachers who you remember for a lifetime. His love of music was infectious, anyone who ever met him would know that. He also taught us all much more about setting goals, and "practice, practice, practice" until we reached those goals. I was never an outstanding musician, but I learned so much from Mr. G. including my love for and appreciation of well-performend music.
My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.
(saxophonist, Class of '69, Rockville High School)
Jeff Parks
September 5, 2008
Sam was my first private lessons trumpet teacher. I remember him for being very patient ... and not getting on me even when my Mom tried to spin him up after she found me playing trumpet in bed on my back (age 12). My most vivid memory of Sam, though, was that we were in the middle of a lesson when the Great Northeast power failure of 1965 struck. Can't remember exactly what we talked about, but it was a wide range of subjects. I took a few years off (from trumpet) during my Coast Guard career, but am back practicing and playing at church every Saturday. I remember Sam very fondly. He very much helped lay a solid foundation for a lifetime of trumpet playing and love of music.
Ronald Miller
September 4, 2008
Mr. G was an inspiration to us students at RHS. He did more than teach music, he taught teamwork and discipline in working toward goals, and enriched our lives with the band trips and other events. It was a privilege to sit under the guidance of his baton.
Wendy Oren
September 4, 2008
I don’t know how to begin to tell the wonderful and lasting influence that “Mr. G” has had on my life! He gave to the band members at Rockville High a love for beautiful music and the thrill of excelling in our concerts. I have fond memories of joining a group of All State band members from area schools. Mr. G had all interested All State Band members meet for several Saturdays and rehearse for a concert. I will never forget the feeling I had at the conclusion of one particular concert. There was thunderous applause and I was thrilled at the skill and leadership of Mr. Goldfarb to lead us to play so excellently.
I am certain that Sam Goldfarb’s influence has been a part of the hearts and lives of hundreds of people over the years. My condolences to the family and wish for grace and peace.
Sincerely,
Wendy Hollister Oren-clarinetist
Rockville High School, Class of 1969
New Castle, DE
Dave Edwards
September 4, 2008
I am so incredibly sad.
I had the honor and privilege of studying with Sam for my first 2 years at the University of Connecticut. Sam did more for me as a player, than any other teacher I ever had. He was demanding and expected a lot, but he was fair, and if you did the work, you earned his respect, a significant accomplishment indeed.
Once I completed school, if I ever had a playing problem or question, the first person I'd call was Sam. And this happened a number of times over the years.
I would not be the player I am today, if it had not been for Sam. I am extremely grateful for his guidance, his expertise and his friendship.
I know in the past, I told him how much I appreciated all of his help and efforts on my behalf. But I wish I had told him even more.
To the Goldfarb Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Please know, that there are many, many people, who share your sorrow as well.
sandra leonard (hale)
September 4, 2008
Gail:
I am so sorry to read of the passing of your dad. He was a remarkable man and admired by all who lives he touched. I can remember the evenings, the days at your home after school (7th, 8th grade) hearing the trumpet playing whether it be your father or one of his students.
My wish is to be there to comfort you in your time of loss, but remember I am always thinking of you, and will keep you in my prayers.
My heart and my love and my sympathy to you, Joel, Rachel and your mom during this sad time in your life. I'LL be in touch.
Love Sandy
Alan Pease
September 3, 2008
Sometimes, if you’re very fortunate, a teacher touches your life in ways that stay with you forever. To me Sam Goldfarb was such a teacher, and I suspect many of his other students feel the same. Sam taught the love of music, excellence in performance, hard work, the joy and mutual responsibility of ensemble playing, and personal accountability. All these and more he conveyed with patience, kindness and a gentle spirit that will always remain with the students who were lucky enough to know him.
He taught teenagers important life lessons with a sense of humor, and he was probably the “coolest” teacher most of us had for any class. I will never forget one day after an RHS band rehearsal went poorly. Many of us had not practiced our parts, but we all had excuses. The following day, we filed into the band room to find an enormous banner suspended behind the podium. It was impossible to watch “Mr. G” conduct rehearsal that day without seeing the words above his head: “Results, not alibis.”
Trumpet lessons with Sam were never easy, but they were always fun, especially when he would pull out his trumpet and play duets with me. Decades later, I was able to coach my son Zach on the trumpet and now he and I share fond memories of playing duets together. How can you ever thank someone for a gift like that? When he started college in Florida, I took Zach to meet “Mr. G” and Maureen. My son finally understood why I had always talked so often about the music teacher who meant so much to me.
Ann Marie, Zach and I extend our sincerest condolences to all of Sam’s family along with our gratitude for the parts of his life he shared with us.
Bruce Denson
September 3, 2008
"Mr. G." was my private trumpet teacher a long time ago. He got people like me to achieve things that we couldn't have ever dreamed.It was a shock back then when I left RHS, joined a college band and discovered that the music was a big step down from what we played at RHS. As with others , I have great memories of band competitions and trips. Yes, I still have several recordings from those years. When was the last time that the RHS band and "Mr. G" came up in my world- last Wednesday. I can only hope that when I stop teaching that some of my students will remember me for half as long and half as fondly as we all remember "Mr. G. My condolences to the family.
Bruce Denson-Trumpet 1960-64
Martin Fagan
September 3, 2008
I want to extend my deepest sympathy to Sam's family. We were colleagues for most of his years at RHS. He was a very able director and his reputation was widely known.
I enjoyed many trips with Sam and his band over the years. He was not only a colleague but a good friend. He will be sorely missed. Martin and Ellen Fagan Kennebunk Beach ME.
Debbie Leschinski
September 3, 2008
How can any of us from the RHS band describe the influence “Mr. G” had on us? He pushed us to our limits and beyond, and I am amazed to this day when I listen to our impressive performances. Thank you, Mr. Goldfarb, for showing us our potential. I remember, just before one special performance, it seemed that we weren’t putting in our best effort during a practice session, and Mr. Goldfarb looked us in the eye and said something like, “What do I have to do to get you to win this competition?!” Of course it was a hypothetical question, but someone from the brass section piped up, “Give us a barbecue at your house!” It seemed everyone took to this idea, and after Mr. G made the promise, we all knucked down and actually won top honors …and the barbecue was great fun!
I will always remember you, Mr. Goldfarb, and we wish your family comfort during this difficult time.
Debbie (Hollister) Leschinski-flutist 1964-1967
Norridgewock, Maine
Bob Bittner
September 3, 2008
My condolences to the Goldfarb family. I like to recall the coronet I found in the family attic when I was a student at Vernon Elementary School. Instrumental music was offered, I wanted to play the instrument, and Sam taught me how to play the instrument. He was patient and I enjoyed the experience. However, I got involved in piano lessons and the school choruses (thanks, Lenzy and Eleanor) and didn't have time for band in my busy school schedule. I always envied the kids in the band, however, and was proud of the high quality of music Sam got out of the students. Having retired myself, recently from Rockville High School, you should know that Sam's name still comes up in conversation from time to time.
Linda Hahn
September 3, 2008
Sam Goldfarb was known to all of his students as "Mr. G" He was an excellent musician and teacher who set high musical standards for all of us to achieve. Mr. G was very proud of the Rockville High School Band, as he would take us places like Boston and Washington, D.C.to perform. What I remember most of all was how he personally helped me on the path to becoming a successful musician and music educator. He somehow found funds in the Vernon Board of Education's music budget to buy a semi-professional flute for me to use during high school while I saved to buy the professional model flute that I still play today. He also assisted in getting me a scholarship to take private lessons at Hartt College. Then when it came time to actually go to college, he helped me get the scholarship money needed to be able to attend Hartt College as a full time student.
Now after 35 years in music education, I can say that I am honored to have followed Sam's footsteps in holding the same position that he held for so many years, that of being the Supervisor of Music for the Vernon school system. He taught me well, and for his perseverance and belief in me, I will eternally be grateful. We will all miss him, but I'm sure that he's already making music with the greats that went before him. 'Til we meet again.........
Sincerely,
Linda Mitchell Hahn
Rockville High School, Class of 1969
Hartt College of Music, Class of 1973
Liz Thomas
September 3, 2008
My sincere sympathy to the Goldfarb family at the loss of a generous and trusting man. When my son was a sophomore at RHS he was in the band and in need of a new trumpet. But as a single working mom I couldn't afford one. Mr. Goldfarb had a beautiful Benge trumpet that my son wanted badly. I asked him if I could make monthly payments for it. He didn't know me at all but asked how much I could afford to pay and then trusted me to mail the payments to Florida. My son played that trumpet with pride through high school and college and still owns it to this day. Liz Thomas
George Lee (RHS '68)
September 3, 2008
"Mr G" will forever remain in the hearts and memories of all RHS band students. I had the privilege to study trumpet privately with him 1966-68. He had a way of bringing out the musical best in each student, and made us proud performers at each concert or marching band event. Being in band under Sam's baton was a true honor. My condolences to Maureen and family.
Ed deGroat
September 3, 2008
Maureen, Robert, and Gail - Sam was such a special friend and colleague. He gave me my first job as a music educator, then guided me through my first years in Rockville. Then, ironically, I hired him to be the Dean at the Hartford Conservatory. He also accompanied me on a European trip with my string orchestra and we had great fun together. I offer my sincere condolences to you in memory of Sam - a gentleman, musician and friend to so many people. Ed
Barb Ratti
September 3, 2008
Gail - I was so very sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. I look back with fond memories of your Dad, especially from the many weekends I stayed over when we were younger. He will always hold a special place in my heart.
My love and sympathy goes out to you, Joel and Rachel during this sad time.
Love,
Barbie
Dr. Lenzy R. Wallace Jr.
September 2, 2008
Sam, we shared a lot of years together starting with living on the same street as kids, going through public School in Hartford, CT, graduating from the Hartt College of Music, building one of the premier band programs in the state working together in Rockville, CT, and working together at the University of Connecticut. You gave me an opportunity when it was not fashionable to hire a Black person for band or choir conducting in CT at that time.(1959) You were one of the earthly angels who put me on the road to success thereby setting in motion the future successful careers of my children as well. That legacy has continued in my grand children who are now following "the path". I called you my "soul brother".
I am grieved by your passing but you will not be forgotten as your legacy will be carried on by all the many students who worked under your baton and grew musically because of you. My sincere sympathy goes out to Maureen and the family as they begin to cope with your passing.
Frank & Mary Lou Gerber
September 1, 2008
We will miss Sam....he was a genuinely wonderful person and so pleasant to be around. Our thoughts and prayers are with Maureen and the rest of the family.
Ron & Marguerite Dejaeghere
September 1, 2008
We are sure God had an army of angels blowing trumpets to welcome Sam into Heaven. We will really miss him and his sweet sounding trummpet melodys.
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