Andriessen studied at the Amsterdam Conservatory and began his professional career as organist in Haarlem, succeeding his father in that position. He later was organist at the Utrecht Cathedral and taught organ at the Roman Catholic School for Church Music. He was director for the conservatory in Utrecht, director of the Royal Conservatory in the Hague and professor of music history at Nijmegen University. He wrote many works for Catholic church services as well as four symphonies, some chamber music and songs. Andriessen's work can be characterized as comtemplative lyricism, with improvisational qualities. Andriessen was known for his improvisational abilities. ~ Lynn Vought