In the realm of classical guitar, one name shines brightly: Andrew Keeping. He is a British concert classical guitarist who has mesmerized audiences worldwide with his exceptional talent and dynamic stage presence. With a career that spans decades, Keeping has established himself as an authority in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of listeners.
From an early age, Keeping displayed an extraordinary affinity for the guitar. He began his musical journey at age six after being inspired by the legendary Andrés Segovia. His passion for the instrument was ignited when he attended a concert at Brent Town Hall in Wembley. This life-changing experience set him on a path that would lead him to become a classical guitar virtuoso.
Keeping’s dedication to honing his craft led him to study with renowned composer and teacher Professor Oliver Hunt at 13. Under Hunt’s guidance, Keeping’s technical prowess and artistic sensibility blossomed, laying the foundation for his future success.
His pursuit of excellence continued at the esteemed Royal Academy of Music in London, where he studied under professors such as Michael Lewin, Timothy Walker, and Robert (Bob) Spencer. Immersed in a world of musical brilliance, Keeping had the privilege of engaging in masterclasses with legends like John Williams, Julian Bream, Robert Tear, and Eduardo Fernandez. These encounters with musical luminaries enriched his understanding of the instrument and further fuelled his passion for classical guitar.
Keeping’s career as a performer has been nothing short of extraordinary. His captivating solo album, “British Guitar,” garnered critical acclaim, showcasing his exceptional musicality and virtuosity. His sold-out recitals at London’s South Bank further solidified his status as a distinguished classical guitarist, captivating audiences with his impeccable technique and profound musical interpretation.
Beyond his solo performances, Keeping’s versatility as a guitarist has led him to collaborate with international singers and instrumentalists, lending his artistry to create breath-taking musical moments. His expertise extends beyond classical guitar, as he has made notable contributions as a studio session musician in film music, TV ads, and collaborations with renowned Classical, Rock, and Pop artists.
However, his journey has not been without its challenges. Following a serious car accident in 1999 that severely damaged his left arm, his career hung in the balance. But through unwavering determination and nine months of intense rehabilitation, Keeping made an astonishing comeback. His triumphant return to the concert stage, marked by a captivating performance at the Purcell Room in London’s South Bank Centre, showcased his resilience and unwavering passion for his craft.
In addition to his contributions as a performer, Keeping’s dedication to music education and mentorship is commendable. Since 2016, he has focused on guitar and music technology, guiding and inspiring numerous students on their musical journeys. His mentorship has nurtured emerging talents, paving the way for a new generation of gifted guitarists, sound designers and film music composers.
Keeping’s commitment to giving back extends beyond the realm of music.Since he and his wife became foster carers in 2004, Andrew has further developed his versatility and aptitude in working with children, including those that have learning disabilities, emotional, behavioral and communication difficulties.This led, in 2018,to him co-founding FASD Awareness, a charity that supports the prevention of alcohol-exposed pregnancies and improves the lives of individuals living with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs). His role as CEO of FASD Awareness and his involvement in various committees and organizations demonstrates his unwavering dedication to positively impacting the community.
Andrew Keeping’s journey as a classical guitarist and educator is a testament to the transformative power of music. From his humble beginnings as a young child inspired by Andrés Segovia to his remarkable performances on renowned stages worldwide and then mentoring music students, Keeping has captivated audiences with his exceptional talent, dynamic presence, and unwavering dedication to his craft.