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MARK POPKIN Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for MARK POPKIN
Susan Wilson
September 6, 2011
A marvelous pedagogue and player, a dear and fine man, and a guy who just knew how to have a good time -- none of these come close to describing Mark. I was lucky enough to study with him in the early 80s and he was such a joy. We bassoonists owe a debt to his legacy to play well and carry on.
Kevin Moore
September 3, 2011
So sorry for the loss of this wonderful man. I enjoyed his wind repertoire class so much it was a pleasure to take it twice. Deepest condolences to the family.
Anne Gillis
September 3, 2011
I almost hate to use the term "teacher" when I think about MPop. To me, that word refers to someone who steps into a role or puts on a hat. During lesson time, he didn't become someone else or play a part; that's just the essence of who he was.... all the time. (And not just about bassoon stuff.) And he didn't really "teach" anything. It was more that he pointed out that the ability was inside us all the time. He helped us to look at whatever skill or technique or phrasing or fingering, differently. He just brought it out of us. And after, it really became obvious that what we deemed complicated really was "a piece of cake." He never let you feel inferior or incapable, and when you left, you not only felt that you were a better player than when you walked in, you also knew you were a better player than you thought you were WHEN you walked in. You also knew you were a better person. His love and passion were infectious, and just his presence in any situation would alter the dynamics of the room and the people in it.
It's a little scary to think that we no longer have the luxury of conversation to get us over our next hurdle. It is now upon us to take everything we learned, everything he gave us, and put it to use. I just hope that I can remember it all and do him justice.
Mpop,
I love you and miss you so much. Thank you for everything you did for me. Now it is time for you to spend eternity with "She who must be obeyed!"
September 2, 2011
my sympathy to mark's family. it was a privilege to know him and learn from him. mary margaret wagner gpbc '04 marquette, michigan
Kristen Goguen
September 1, 2011
When people ask me about MPop, I tell them it's hard to fully understand what an amazing person he was without knowing him. He was so full of life and genuine affection for everyone around him. It was hard not to be happy when you were around Pop. I will eternally be grateful that I knew him, and even more grateful for the wisdom he shared with me. I will always carry a little piece of him with me. MPop, I will miss you, but I know that you and Elsie are reunited at last. I love you!
Kristin Bruning
September 1, 2011
I knew Mark as the father and father in law to my dear friends, Benjie and Sherry Popkin. Until the end, he remained jolly and ever ready to talk with me about our beloved New York City-- the bialies, the pizza, the energy, the people. What a special person for me to have known, even if only peripherally. Mark - you will be sorely missed! Thank you for all you gave to so many. Kristin(Bruning) and Michael O'Beirne
Ashley Heintzen
August 31, 2011
I will never forget the musical wisdom and life teaching Mark Popkin imparted to me during high school at NCSA. Even after 25 years, my reeds are still Popkin modeled. As a teacher, I will remember and strive to show my students the same compassion, humor and devotion that was a hallmark of Mark's teaching style. The best lesson I learned from Mark was not to take life or myself so seriosly. He was well loved, and will always be remembered with love and humor.
Maria Spuller
August 31, 2011
Wonderful man, teacher, father, mentor, and bassoonist. He was much loved. Many of our lives were changed forever due to our interactions with Mpop.
Cowles Liipfert Jr
August 31, 2011
Mark was like my other Dad. I will miss him dearly.
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