Touring & Residencies III 2026-27
Hybrid performance, modular collaboration, and contemporary chamber ensemble direction.
GLITCH
An immersive solo performance integrating drumset, live electronics, Sensory Percussion, and interactive design. GLITCH redefines the percussion recital through hybrid composition, improvisation, and technological integration.
The Space Between Breaths
A modular, multi-movement work for flexible ensemble exploring tension, release, and shared breath through text-based structures and interchangeable forms. Designed for percussion ensemble or mixed chamber group, the piece invites individual agency within collective architecture.
Music for 18 Musicians — 50th Anniversary Project (1976-2026)
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of its premiere on April 24, 1976, this offering provides embedded artistic direction and performance collaboration for Steve Reich’s landmark work Music for 18 Musicians.
I join the ensemble as a performing artist on the vibraphone part, leading rehearsals and shaping the performance from within the group — honoring the collaborative spirit at the heart of the piece.
This project is designed as a guided partnership culminating in a locally mounted public performance.
Depending on institutional needs, the collaboration may include:
Pre-visit planning consultation
Rehearsal structure design and pacing strategy
Sectional and full-ensemble direction
Pulse alignment and breath-based phrasing development
Structural listening and transition work
Endurance and long-form pacing refinement
Performance shaping and staging considerations
Final dress rehearsal and concert collaboration
Drawing on Reich’s often-cited concept of phrasing “in one breath,” this project emphasizes collective timing, architectural clarity, and the subtle tension and release embedded in the work’s sustained rhythmic cycles.
By performing from within the vibraphone role while guiding the larger structure, I help the ensemble develop cohesion, confidence, and a deeply integrated interpretation of this iconic 20th-century masterwork.
Ideal for university programs and advanced mixed ensembles prepared to engage rigorously with long-form minimalism.
Scope, rehearsal timeline, and level of involvement customized to institutional resources and calendar.
What People Are Saying
" Andy Bliss presented an outstanding master class for our students at George Mason University! Not only were his comments technically helpful to the students, but he pushed them to expand their own artistic ideas and explore new ways to hear their music. He was an excellent clinician, and I look forward to his return."
— John Kilkenny /// Director of Percussion - George Mason University
"Andy Bliss presented a great and informative performance while at UNCP! His level of musicality and execution was tremendous and he also presented great information about the pieces during the program. My students also had a great time working with him in lessons and learning more about the history of percussion repertoire during our studio class time. He is a performer of the highest order!"
— Dr. Tracy Wiggins /// Director of Percussion - UNC Pembroke
"Andy's visit to the University of Nebraska was inspirational to our percussion studio. Andy worked expertly with our Percussion Ensemble and our students in clinic and masterclass settings. He was exceedingly generous with his time and knowledge and even presented to music majors in our Percussion Methods course. For me personally, it was an artistically and pedagogically refreshing visit. Thanks Andy!"
— Dr. Dave Hall /// Director of Percussion - University of Nebraska
“Andy has a unique ability to share very complex music with students in a way that is both accessible and educational.”
— Dr. Jason Baker /// Director of Percussion - Mississippi State University
“Andy’s recital was absolutely splendid, and his two lectures for our Percussion Literature and Studio Classes were expertly done. Andy spent a great deal of time with individual students, and talked shop with the students in between. His passion for this music is obvious and contagious....a top-drawer artist and scholar.”
— Dr. B. Michael Williams /// Director of Percussion - Winthrop University
"Andy Bliss' residency at Tennessee Tech University changed the way my students think and made me re-evaluate my approach as an educator. His expertise as a pedagogue, scholar, and performer are of the highest quality and I would welcome him back anytime! If you ever have the chance to work with Andy Bliss or bring him into your program, I couldn't recommend it more."
— Dr. Colin Hill /// Director of Percussion - Tennessee Tech University