Andrew Bliss stands at the forefront of contemporary percussion as a visionary performer, dedicated educator, and innovative curator whose artistic impact resonates across the global percussion community. As Director of Percussion Studies at the University of Tennessee, Andy cultivates the next generation of percussion artists while maintaining an active performance career that spans from intimate venues to prestigious festivals worldwide.
A passionate advocate for new music, Andy has collaborated with today’s most innovative composers and performers alike. His versatility as a performer is demonstrated through appearances with Grammy-winning ensemble Roomful of Teeth, the Kronos Quartet, and as a featured concerto soloist with the Knoxville Symphony. Andy’s productions frequently break new ground, from conducting live film scores to directing immersive percussion experiences like Michael Pisaro’s 100-performer work A wave and waves at the Big Ears Festival.
Under Andrew’s direction, the University of Tennessee Percussion Ensemble has gained national recognition, performing at prestigious events including the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) and the Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference. His influence extends far beyond his home institution, as he is regularly sought after as a clinician and guest artist at major percussion events including Music for All National Percussion Festival, the Ohio State Percussion Festival, and numerous university residencies across the country.
As co-founder and Artistic Director Emeritus of Nief-Norf, Andy spent two decades creating an essential platform for contemporary musical thought — bringing together emerging composers, performers, and scholars from around the world. His method book Multitudes has become a staple in percussion education programs nationwide, while his service to the Percussive Arts Society has included multiple leadership roles, including two terms on the Board of Directors.