Andy Mulligan first took an interest in the guitar as a teenager in Liverpool, influenced in equal parts by John Williams and Jimi Hendrix. Alongside his formal music training he sang in several choirs and played guitar in local bands. He attained a BMus degree in music (specialising in guitar and composition) at Cardiff University, and later briefly studied guitar with John Mills at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. After completing a PGCE in Secondary Music at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, he undertook two tours of the US singing with the Black Mountain Chorus of Wales. On his return he started working for Rhondda Cynon Taff Music service in 1999 as a guitar tutor.

 

In this time he has taught a wide range of instruments and disciplines; classical and contemporary guitar, bass guitar, ukulele, violin, viola, grade 5 theory and composition. Over the years he has planned and directed songwriting and music performance workshops for RCT music service and First Campus, culminating in live performances and professional recordings. He runs Hot Jam Music Productions, specialising in rock and pop projects in primary and secondary schools, and further education.

As a musician Andy has enjoyed 10 years of performing and recording with Only Men Aloud, alongside a variety of engagements on the guitar in pit orchestras, rock bands, smaller ensembles and as a soloist. He also takes on occasional recording projects, working on garageband, pro tools and iMovie.