Feature: Barrett Goff

There are plenty of opportunities for musicians at USC Aiken, and few exemplify this better than senior music education major Barrett Goff.  

Goff is a bass singer and a multi-instrumentalist proficient at playing the clarinet, saxophone, bass clarinet, bass guitar and viola amongst other instruments. When asked about the wide range of instruments he can play, Goff said, “It was a bit out of necessity, as the ensembles would sometimes not have someone to cover the parts. I also feel like it would help me as a music educator, as I can have background in what my students would be playing”. 

Goff has had a love for music for a long time, “I’ve been playing instruments since 5th grade and I’ve been singing in my church choir since 2016”.  

When Goff was asked about what inspired him to pursue music, he had this to say, “In high school, I had a great teacher named Dr. Westberry that made it seem like a job that I’d be willing to have and be fun to have. Also, my other band director in high school named Mr. Priest who came after Dr. Westberry also made it seem approachable because he was 24 when he came to my school. Those two really helped solidify my choice”. 

Goff shared his plans after graduating, stating, “I see myself finding a job in education hopefully close by and getting married”. 

Goff participates in three musical ensembles across campus, the Wind Ensemble, Concert Choir and Jazz Band.  

Asked about his best times at USC Aiken, Goff stated, “Playing in the ensembles is the most fun for me. Getting to know the education professors was also great, as they’re all brilliant at what they do”.

The music program at USC Aiken can fall under people’s radar if not properly researched. When asked about the most important thing to know about the music program at USC Aiken, Goff stated, “It’s very time consuming, but that doesn't mean that it shouldn’t be pursued. Just like a lot of things in life, it takes a lot of commitment to not fall behind”. 

Goff’s love for music is sure to take him far in life, and he is a testament to the quality of musicians at USC Aiken. 

*If you would like to hear Goff perform a bit, check out the USCA Music page on Instagram!*