New Arrangements of the Odes- by Toby Hanson, Sovereign Grand Musician

I have prepared fresh arrangements of the opening and closing odes for the Odd Fellows, Rebekahs, and Encampment. They are written in a clear, accessible style that will be easy for pianists to read and singers to follow. There are introductions to each ode so that singers can find the key and know when to begin singing. Knowing that there is a greater diversity of musicians in Odd Fellowship than just pianists, I have also included a melody line with chords so that guitarists and players of other chordal instruments can easily read along and accompany singing.

Read More New Arrangements of the Odes- by Toby Hanson, Sovereign Grand Musician

Coming Together Where the World is Shut Out – New Art by Ainslie Heilich

I started thinking about the physical and spiritual sacred space of the Lodge and how it acts to bring people together.  During the Opening Ritual we physically seal the room by securing the doors and covering the windows from the outside world and its influences and we spiritually strip ourselves of who we are on the outside and take on the mantle of our respective office.  

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New Symbol Shirt Designs by Ainslie Heilich

I have been working on some minimalism/geometric monoline designs to represent the Degrees of Odd Fellowship.  It was tough to figure out what symbols to include or exclude, but I am pleased with the overall inclusion.  

These designs are available in the Heart in Hand Store, and are able to be placed on tons of unique products if tshirts aren’t your thing.   As always, all proceeds benefit my home Lodge. 

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The Music of Odd Fellows Reclaiming the Odes Closing Ode – Italian Hymn -by Todd Swanson

Last time, we looked the Opening Ode “Columbia” written by Odd Fellow Brother John Seiffert. Next, we examine the Closing Ode set to the tune, “Italian Hymn”.  As I mentioned in my last article, the odes of Odd Fellows have been set to several familiar tunes not necessary written by or for the Odd Fellows. The first of the closing odes being a composition from Felice De Giardini known as the (Italian Hymn).

Read More The Music of Odd Fellows Reclaiming the Odes Closing Ode – Italian Hymn -by Todd Swanson