On May 1, Ian Farish '89 was a part of a trio of staff honoured for their 25-year milestone in teaching at St. Michaels University School. That trio, all alumni, also included Mary McLeish ’89 and Jeff Hunt ’91.
Ian's teaching journey at SMUS began in 1999, when he stepped into the classroom to teach both science and music. With degrees in Chemistry and Music, he quickly found his rhythm in the arts, moving into a full-time Senior School music teaching role in his second year. After that, he spent 15 years at the Middle School teaching band, before returning to Senior School music and the role of Head of Music. He spent his formative teaching years at the Middle School leading the band program—a time he now reflects on as foundational to his career.
“I learned a lot in those years,” Ian reflected. “I built my career on that period of my professional life.”
He credits his early mentors, especially longtime colleague John Reid, for inspiring him to dream big and take on bold, collaborative projects.
For 25 years, Ian led early-morning Jazz Band rehearsals every Tuesday and Thursday, calling it “his favourite part of the day.” His influence has extended beyond the classroom through countless musicals and concerts, including co-writing an original Middle School musical with colleague Douglas Manson-Blair, The King of Elfland’s Daughter, complete with a full orchestra.
“We always loved when someone would say, ‘I thought it was as good as the Senior School musical this year!’” he recalled with a smile.
Another personal highlight came when SMUS alumna and singer-songwriter Emily Reid ’09 returned to perform in a year-end concert with students from Grades 6 to 12. The 2012 performance, still available on SMUSTube, remains a pinnacle moment for Ian.
Music, Family, and the SMUS Spirit
Ian’s connection to SMUS is deeply personal. He and his brother Craig Farish ‘90 first arrived at the school as boarders in the 1980s. Today, SMUS is truly a family affair: all five of Ian’s children have attended the school, and his son Jake ’09 and daughter-in-law Gabriele are now staff at the Middle School. His wife, Tanis, also taught at SMUS and the couple served as house parents during their early years. Craig currently works as the head of Outdoor Education and the risk management and sustainability coordinator.
For Ian, SMUS is more than a workplace—it’s a community and a platform for meaningful, creative collaboration. He describes his approach as being grounded in service, hard work and joy.
“Every project and concert requires a team,” he said. “Creative projects like musicals allow me to push myself and learn alongside the kids and my colleagues. Each one is a leap of faith—but if it’s worthwhile, it’s hard work for all of us.”
Recently, he was proud to be part of the senior faculty team behind The Prom, where he conducted the student orchestra.
“We all worked hard,” he says. “It was only one piece of the puzzle, but I was proud to be part of that team.”
Reflecting on 25 years, Ian simply added: “Time flies. I feel like I just arrived.”
Yet his legacy—of mentorship, musical excellence and community spirit—is firmly rooted in the life of the school.
Three faculty members are highlighted this year for their 25-year milestone at SMUS. Read more about:
