On the evening of August 5, 2025, the vibrant city of Salem fell silent for a moment, mourning the loss of a visionary whose passion for music wove a tapestry of harmony and community. Mark Green, the indomitable spirit behind Make Music Salem, passed away after a valiant fight against Wild-Type Amyloidosis. His departure leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his legacy—a symphony of inclusivity, creativity, and joy—will resonate for generations.
Mark was no ordinary man; he was a maestro of connection, a dreamer who saw music as a universal language capable of uniting people from all walks of life. In 2016, he introduced Salem to Make Music Day, a global celebration held annually on June 21, the first day of summer. What began as a spark of inspiration grew into a roaring flame, transforming Salem’s cultural landscape. Under Mark’s guidance, Make Music Salem blossomed into a cherished tradition, a day when the city’s streets, parks, and venues come alive with the sound of over 275 performances across more than 60 locations. From jazz to folk, rock to classical, every genre found a home, and every musician—whether a seasoned professional or a nervous first-timer—found a stage.
Mark’s vision was as expansive as it was inclusive. He believed that music should be free, accessible, and open to all, regardless of age, background, or skill level. Make Music Salem became a platform where children strummed their first chords, retirees rediscovered their love for song, and everyone in between shared their talents under the summer sun. It was a celebration not just of music, but of community—a testament to Mark’s unwavering belief that art could make the world a better place.
His dedication did not go unnoticed. In 2024, the City of Salem honored the Make Music Salem volunteer committee, led by Mark, with the prestigious Spirit Award, recognizing their extraordinary contributions to the city’s cultural vibrancy. That same year, the national Make Music Alliance lauded Salem as the Best Functioning Smaller-to-Medium Sized City for Make Music Day events, a crowning achievement that reflected Mark’s tireless efforts. His influence reached far beyond Oregon’s borders as a proud member of the Make Music Alliance Board, where he helped shape the future of music celebrations nationwide.
Mark’s work was not just about organizing events; it was about building connections. He had a gift for bringing people together, fostering friendships, and creating moments of shared joy. Whether he was coordinating performers, securing venues, or simply cheering on a young musician, Mark’s enthusiasm was infectious. His warm smile and boundless energy made everyone feel like they belonged, like their voice mattered in the grand chorus of Salem’s music scene.
Though Wild-Type Amyloidosis took Mark from us too soon, his song will never fade. The stages he built, the communities he nurtured, and the love for music he instilled will continue to inspire. Make Music Salem will carry on, a living tribute to a man who turned a single day into a celebration of life itself. As the city prepares for the next June 21, musicians will take to the streets, their melodies carrying a piece of Mark’s spirit into the future.
Rest in music, Mark Green. Your legacy is a melody that will echo through Salem’s heart forever.
