Goldman, Edwin Franko (1878-1956), was a leading American bandmaster. In 1911, he organized the New York Military Band, which was renamed the Goldman Band in 1918. The band became famous for its skill and its unusual programs, which included both symphonic music and traditional band numbers. Many classical composers, including Henry Cowell of the United States, Darius Milhaud of France, and Ottorino Respighi of Italy, wrote works especially for the band. Goldman himself wrote 109 marches and 3 books on music. His best-known march is On the Mall (1923).
Goldman was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on Jan. 1, 1878. As a teenager, he studied composition in New York City with the Czech composer Antonin Dvorak. From 1895 to 1905, Goldman played solo cornet at the Metropolitan Opera. His visits to schools and colleges toward the end of his life helped raise the standards of bands and band music. He died on Feb. 21, 1956. After he died, his son, Richard Franko Goldman, became leader of the Goldman Band.
