Andy Townend (born 1952, died 1998)
Andy was one of the world's really exciting mandolin players, but he played jazz guitar, and old-time and bluegrass banjo as well. He was also a really nice person. For a good account of Andy's music see John Baldry's web-site
This year (25.8.2008) the Kentucky to Kent UK day festival will feature a concert by some great musicians who played with Andy, and whose music he greatly respected. It is intended that there will be a selection of Andy's music available on CD on the day. For details call Rick Townend on 01732 458261 or email richard@stju lians.co.uk (please omit space when using this email address)
Andy was a member of the Echo Mountain Band - see page on this website - Orange Blossom, and the Townends Special Bluegrass Service; he also played in a duet with Dave Plane.
Andy Townend is in the British Bluegrass Hall of Honour, for his exceptional mandolin music and contribution to the British bluegrass music scene..
Andy composed many sophisticated pieces for mandolin, based squarely in bluegrass syle, but drawing on jazz and many other influences. Here are tablatures for some of them:
For more tabs of Andy's tunes, please send stamps to value of £1 (to cover copying and postage costs) to Rick Townend, St Julians, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RX