Jara Goodrich

Jara Goodrich is principal harpist with the Portland Symphony Orchestra, Bangor Symphony Orchestra, Portland Opera Repertory Theatre, Portland Ballet, and Maine Music Society. Jara began her study of the harp at age nine at the Salzedo School in Camden, Maine, studying with Carlos Salzedo until his death. She continued her studies at the Cleveland Institute of Music under Alice Chalifoux, then principal harpist with the Cleveland Orchestra. Jara has performed with the North Carolina Symphony, Cleveland Playhouse, Goldovsky Opera Theatre, Cleveland Orchestra Chorus, CBS Sunday Morning, Morning Pro Musica, and Bay Chamber Concerts. She has performed under numerous conductors including James Levine, Hugh Wolf, and Robert Shaw. Jara’s current performance venues include solo, chamber music, orchestral, recitals, weddings, receptions, and parties.

Jara is on the faculties of the University of Southern Maine, Bates College, Portland Conservatory, ASTA Summer String Conference, Camp Encore-Coda, and coaches members of the USM Youth Ensembles. She has students from age eight adult, from Presque Isle to Kennebunkport. She conducts the Maine Harp Ensembles, and often combines teaching with performing in her travels.