Mel Bay presents DADGAD Encyclopedia
After pursuing a variety of musical directions including woodwinds during his youth and college years, Jim Goodin settled on the guitar as a solo instrument and compositional tool. In the early 80s he studied classical technique but after a short time went his own way, developing new techniques and working in alternative tunings. During the early 90s Jim studied composition with Frederick Hand and, briefly, fingerstyle technique and arranging with El McMeen. Originally a native of Arkansas, Jim moved to New York in 1991 and now performs throughout New England. In the late 80s, Jim became engrossed with Celtic music, particularly the works of the 17th 18th century Irish harpist, Turlough O'Carolan. Working with O'Carolan's melodies strongly influenced Jim's own compositional style but his more recent compositions also reflect the influence of Michael Hedges, Will Ackerman, Alex de Grassi, and Ralph Towner. The imprints of composer Steve Reich and jazz pianist Bill Evans can also be felt in Jim's music. Jim endorses Headway Electronics Partners of London and is a clinician for GHS Strings. "[Jim Goodin plays] solo acoustic guitar music combining Celtic, New Age and World influences, great to unwind with at the end of a long day." -- Derek Sivers, CDBABY.com "[Jim's] music has a real natural ease to it very relaxed and musical." -- Woody M