Episode 038 - Steve Goodson Part 1; Turning repair experience to instrument design

Steve Goodson has been involved in some aspects of the music business on a professional basis since 1963, when he started taking money for playing.   In Steve’s words… “Quite a few members of my family on both sides played professionally, so it was a rather natural thing for me to pursue. I’ve been very fortunate to have had some excellent teachers over the years, and feel very strongly about passing that knowledge on. I keep a full studio of students so I can teach what I’ve been taught.”   Steve retired from active performance in 2003 for reasons of health. But prior to his retirement, he performed with Solomon Burke, Eddie Money, Dr. John, Marcia Ball, Chubby Checker, Vince Vance, and many, many other internationally known performers.   He has also done hundreds of recording sessions and played thousands of live gigs everywhere from huge stadiums to tiny bars.

Steve started doing repairs on his own horns in 1964. As he got more skilled his following increased to include such luminaries as Maceo Parker and the late Michael Brecker, along with hundreds of loyal customers from all over the world.

His repair experience led to instrument design.

As Steve says…

“I knew I could improve on what was available. I am very proud that instruments of my original unique design have been marketed throughout the world for almost fifteen years, and that thousands of horns bearing my name are circulating through the musical community. I also make mouthpieces, necks, and have designed many original accessories for saxophones. Our products are all unique to us, and are not available anywhere else.”

Steve’s articles about saxophone design have been widely published by music magazines in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. He currently writes for every issue of Saxophone Today (www.saxophonetoday.com) and freelance writing for other publications.

The link to his full biography, along with more Resources for this episode, is on our website.

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