Pennsylvania Mason Composes Civil War Symphony

A world premier recording of a stirring new symphony, "Fields of Crimson," performed by the Altoona Symphony Orchestra and labeled "the first Civil War-based symphony of its kind," was released July 1, the anniversary date for the start of the three-day Battle of Gettysburg in 1865. The composer of the five-movement symphony is 26-year-old Bro. Todd W. Goodman, a member of Bedford Lodge No. 320.

The work was performed under the baton of Maestro Nicholas Palmer in the historic Mishler Theatre in Altoona. It takes the listener through pre-battle preparations, the three days of battle, and a heart-warming elegy. A moving narration simulating diary entries from the perspective of an adolescent girl who lived in Gettysburg was written by Bedford native Justin Cober and read by Carolyn Donaldson, a central Pennsylvania television personality.

Bro. Todd Goodman writes of his composition: "When I was a boy growing up in central Pennsylvania, the Civil War was an omnipresent theme...the ruins of battlefields, historical markers, and monuments...were always its constant reminder. The older I got, the more I realized how integral these few years of history were to the molding of the foundation of America. When I finally visited these battlefields, the impression left on my mind was one of humble and noble awe. Lives were lost for freedom; freedom from tyranny, freedom of rights, and freedom for life. "Fields of Crimson" is my rendition of this story."

The Goodmans are a Masonic family. Todd's father, Richard E. Goodman, is the Worshipful Master of Bedford Lodge. His mother, Sandra, is a Past Worthy Matron of Bedford Springs Chapter No. 41, Order of the Eastern Star, and a Past District Deputy. His brother, Richard Goodman II, is a member of Bedford Lodge, but now resides in Colorado where he currently is the director of the El Jebel Shrine's "True Blue" big band.

In an e-mail, the composer noted that the CD of the symphony is available through www.Amazon.com or by calling (800) 289-6923.