GSIS 10 Year Anniversary Yearbook: Memories | Page 151

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The Legacy of The Love of Music

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When GSIS opened its doors in 2006, the school was just beginning its
music program. However, in ten short years music students have
won over 50 awards and honors. While this has much to do with the
various educators who have graced the classrooms of the music department,
it would not have been possible without the efforts of former music teacher Mr.
Mark Pash.

Mr. Mark Pash, a retired music teacher who worked previously in the Californian public school system, came to GSIS through former Principal Mr. Rod
Wallace. When Mr. Pash first entered GSIS, the music program was relatively
small, having only middle and elementary school courses. Mr. Pash had a great
vision: a music program with an orchestra, band, and concert choir. Through the
support of students and parents, Mr. Pash was able to fulfill his vision and develop the program significantly, allowing it to thrive as more high school courses
were added.

Not only did the orchestra, band, and concert choir credit their existence
to Mr. Pash, but other important aspects of the program would not have been
established without him.

For instance, the school initially didn’t have the great music rooms it has
today. Mr. Pash’s efforts led to the establishment of these classrooms. “The room
where the [music] theory class is being taught now; that was a part of something
else, most likely a closet.” Ms. Brown explained.

When GSIS was attempting to get certified by the IB, Mr. Pash helped get
the music program certified.

Mr. Pash was widely known for having great student interactions and get-

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ting them into the
music program. Mrs. Lozano
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said, “He had a talent for looking at students and finding their musical talent. I remember he encouraged Class of 2011 Jason Chi to switch from the violin to the Contra
Bass. Jason was the first bass player at GSIS, and this is because of the support
Mr. Pash offered him through his time and resources.”

During the week Mr. Pash passed away, various students, who are now
alumni, reflected on the impact he made in their lives. Alumnae Kathy Yun
remarked, “One thing that everyone remember was how nice he was. He cared
about us.”

In Volume Three, Issue One of the newspaper, alumnae and current music
teacher at TCIS Randy Park said Mr. Pash was someone who would listen to her
about her life. “He was always ready to listen to me and give

a thoughtful response that would make my day better.”

Additionally, Jason Lee, class of 2012, said, “He would always come and
talk to us and make us smile.”

Mr. Pash passed away on Oct. 27, 2010 at Ajou University Hospital due to
a heart attack and the loss was felt by everyone.

Even though his physical presence has disappeared, his care for students
and love of music is still present in the school community. Ms. Brown reflected, “The most admired and most lasting lesson is that it’s never too late to do
anything you deemed impossible. All you need to have is trust in faith and go
out on the belief that God will take you where you need to go.”

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