South African flautist, composer, producer and two-time Grammy winning artist, Wouter Kellerman has been honoured with a Grammy Award nomination in the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category for his latest album, Triveni.
This transcendent project, a collaboration with Japanese cellist Eru Matsumoto and Indian vocalist Chandrika Tandon, weaves together musical traditions from three continents, creating a unique and meditative sonic experience.
Triveni reflects the meeting of diverse musical cultures, combining Kellerman’s expressive flute, Matsumoto’s emotive cello, and Tandon’s soulful mantra vocals to bring listeners on a journey of healing, unity, and introspection. Named after the confluence of three rivers, Triveni represents the convergence of the trio’s distinct musical voices and cultural backgrounds, celebrating both individuality and interconnectedness.
“I’m deeply grateful for this Grammy nomination and honoured to share this journey with such inspiring artists as Eru and Chandrika,” says Kellerman. “Our goal with Triveni was to create a space for healing and reflection, a meeting place for different cultures, and a celebration of the power of music to connect us all.”
This nomination is another remarkable milestone in Kellerman’s career, furthering his mission to share South African music with the world and foster cross-cultural collaborations. Known for his innovative approach to the flute and his dedication to uniting people through music, Kellerman has previously received two Grammy Awards and nine South African Awards (SAMA’s) and has brought South African music to global audiences in profound and unforgettable ways.
In addition to this prestigious nomination, Kellerman was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Art and Design from Tshwane University of Technology, recognising his significant contributions to the arts and his dedication to cultural exchange.
The Triveni album is a testament to the universal language of music, blending African, Japanese, and Indian musical traditions in a way that honours each and creates something entirely new. With this Grammy nomination, Kellerman, Matsumoto, and Tandon hope to inspire listeners to embrace the beauty of diversity and the power of harmony.
Triveni, a release by Gallo Music, is available on all major streaming platforms.
