The composition faculty at Michigan State University describe the music of Michael Goodman (b. 1988) as dramatic, humorous, and energetic. He views composition as a communicative art form through which he explores musical and philosophical ideas. Drawing from his own experiences as well as those of close friends, particularly experiences related to neurodivergence, Michael creates music that embraces acting, speech, humor, and drama as expressive musical elements. His work frequently brings together diverse influences such as rock, jazz, and classical music to create a musical language that is uniquely expressive, personal, and authentic.

Michael's compositions have been performed throughout North America, the U.K., Portugal, Hong Kong, and Croatia by musicians, ensembles and festivals such as Sarah Lewis - Assistant Principal Oboist of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra; Edward Goodman - Associate Professor of Saxophone at University of Arizona; Jackson Symphony Orchestra (MI); Mason Orchestral Society; Musique 21; University of the Pacific; The Great Noise Ensemble; ensemble mise-en; and "The President's Own" United States Marine Band.

Michael earned both his Master of Music and Bachelor of Music degrees in music composition from Michigan State University, where he studied with Ricardo Lorenz, Jere Hutcheson, Charles Ruggiero, and Mark Sullivan. He has also studied with Joel Hoffman, Armando Bayolo, William Bolcom, Michael Daugherty, David Dzubay, Kieran MacMillan, and Marc Mellits. He additionally holds a Master of Arts degree in Arts Administration from Florida State University. His professional experience includes internships with Eighth Blackbird, Third Coast Percussion, and Ensemble Dal Niente.

Michael resides in Lansing, Michigan, where he serves as Development Manager for the Lansing Symphony Orchestra. He also maintains an active career as a freelance composer.