Meet Andy Wood
Andy Wood spent most of his childhood playing and competing in bluegrass festivals. Touring the bluegrass circuit with his cousin and grandfather, Andy held various state championship titles.
At 16, Andy finished second in the World Championship Mandolin Contest in Kansas. All before discovering the world of electric guitar at the age of eighteen.
By 18, Andy's curiosity and appreciation for music drew him into the world of electric guitars. The new instrument was familiar due to his experience with acoustic instruments, but at the same time, allowed him to manipulate his sound in ways never before possible. He began studying the styles of Nashville session players such as Brent Mason and Albert Lee, along with new styles such as jazz, swing, fusion, and rock. His focus was to take these styles and make them his own.
At 22, Andy was drawn back to competition in the form of GUITARMAGGEDON, a guitar contest sponsored by Guitar Center. Andy was a face in the crowd of 3,400 other contestants, but he made his presence known by being crowned champion of this prestigious tournament. Not long after winning Guitarmaggedon, Andy became a founding member of the rock group DOWN FROM UP. They have toured with Seven Dust, Drowning Pool and 10 Years.
Currently touring as a solo guitarist and mandolinist along with working on a host of additional musical projects, Andy is also performing live with his own band promoting CAUGHT BETWEEN THE TRUTH AND A LIE, the double album which showcases his vast musical influences and abilities.
Andy has toured professionally with a wide range of acts, including most recently Gary Allan, LOCASH, Rascal Flatts, Scott Stapp, and Sebastian Bach. We are thrilled to now add his talents to the JamPlay staff of instrutors.