Andrew Keeping is recognized as one of the UK's leading guitarists, educators, and innovators in the music industry. His extensive career has taken him around the globe, collaborating with top musicians, composers, musicologists, and prestigious institutions. A highly sought-after performer, producer, speaker, and lecturer, he is also a favourite among the British Royal Family.
A proud alumnus of the Royal Academy of Music in London, Andrew's exceptional talent was first showcased with his critically acclaimed solo album, "British Guitar," and through two sold-out performances at London's Southbank Centre. His international presence includes numerous appearances and broadcasts on radio and television. As a session musician, Andrew's versatile guitar work can be heard in film scores, TV commercials, and alongside some of the biggest names in rock and pop music.
Andrew’s dedication to the works of British composers has driven him to advocate for contemporary compositions and inspire new pieces for the guitar. His insightful articles and interviews have been featured in various music publications. In 2015, he founded KeepingMusic, a recording company focused on producing music for soundtracks and artists' albums. In 2021, KeepingMusic partnered with New Planet Film and Media to launch KeepingMedia, a production company.
With an intricate understanding of neurodiversity born out of two decades of fostering children with learning disabilities, emotional, behavioural, and communication difficulties, and a firm belief in the boundless capacity for transformation, Keeping has worked closely with an array of therapists in merging music and neurodiversity. His work has helped transform the landscape of therapeutic interventions and educational approaches in paving the way for individuals with neurodivergent profiles to achieve new levels of cognitive functioning, social interaction, and personal growth.
Andrew has become an instrumental figure in reshaping the narrative surrounding disabilities in music. One of Keeping's notable contributions has been the establishment of platforms and initiatives that amplify the voices of disabled artists, fostering a supportive community that celebrates their unique abilities. He has organized inclusive music festivals, talent showcases, and workshops that provide a safe and inclusive space for musicians with disabilities to showcase their skills, collaborate, and network with industry professionals. These initiatives offer a platform for artistic expression and challenge preconceived notions and stereotypes, inviting audiences to appreciate the wealth of talent beyond conventional boundaries.
Beyond the stage, Andrew actively works with policymakers and industry leaders to promote accessibility in the arts. In 2018, he co-founded the award-winning charity FASD Awareness, aimed at preventing alcohol-exposed pregnancies and improving the lives of those affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). After serving four years as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, he became the CEO of FASD Awareness in 2021.
In recognition of his contributions, the Royal Academy of Music named him an Honorary Associate in 2001. In 2017, he was honoured with a Fellowship from the Independent Society of Musicians (ISM), where he currently sits as a Director and Council Member.