Jim Harkins knew early on that guitar would be his lifelong focus. Although he alsostudied piano and bass – the guitar - thanks to influences by The Beatles and other vocal pop groups, would remain most appealing. At age 16 he studied classical guitar with maestro Louis Marino Sr. of Norwich; performing pieces by Bach, Carcassi and Sor. While attending University of Connecticut, Jim played with the UConn Jazz Ensemble conducted by composer Thomas Duffy. Soon thereafter, Jim began playing with area groups including "Hardwood", "Triad" and "Mainstreet". After several years of performing locally Jim joined "White Heat", a popular band which toured the mid west and other U.S. cities. They also toured with Sunshine Recording group "The Association".
In the early 80’s, Jim settled down in Connecticut with wife Patsy. Each weekend for the next two years his new group "Good Grief" entertained at weddings and parties throughout the state. Jim spent the next 4 years co-writing, arranging and transcribing hundreds of medleys and cover songs for "Prime Time", a select trio co-founded by drummer Mike Hayden and bassist Kim Goldich.
As the 90’s approached, Jim joined the legendary "Chubby Clark Band" and for over a decade he and the band played such diverse styles as: the Big Band Era, 50’s and 60's rock, as well as the latest pop hits. Jim’s passion for guitar has also led him to be a respected educator and repair craftsman in the region.
After years of working in the retail music business, he’s now a private instructor and guitar luthier. He also records and produces original music, jingles, voice-overs and demos for clients at his Studio 280 in Coventry, Connecticut. As a Guitarist/Singer, he performs weekly at venues which include restaurants, senior communities and clubs. Jim’s newest find (and favorite band) is "42nd Street".
"This group has the best of both worlds to me... the variety of music I enjoy; and the talented members who make it sound great".