At the age of 19, Farrar enrolled in the famous Dana Musical Institute in Warren, studying theory, composition, and cornet playing.
Following graduation, he taught brass instruments and conducted the Institute band for 7 years.
He resigned from Dana in 1896 to organize the Indiana State Band, which he led for two years.
He became a member of Old Erie Masonic Lodge No 3 in 1894 and was active until 1904, when he was expelled for non-payment of dues.
As a march composer, Farrar is most remembered for "Bombasto", "Indiana State Band", and "Hi Henry's Triumphal".