Johannesburg-born flautist, composer, and producer Wouter Kellerman has secured his third Grammy Award, winning Best New Age, Ambient or Chant Album for Triveni, a collaboration with Japanese cellist Eru Matsumoto and Indian vocalist Chandrika Tandon.
“This is a testament to the fact that music has the power to unite and heal,” Kellerman said during his acceptance speech.
“Music connects, and I am very grateful to share this moment with you.” He also thanked his collaborators and longtime business partner Tholsi Pillay.
The 67th Grammy Awards, hosted by Trevor Noah and broadcast on CBS, celebrated the best in the music industry.
Kellerman and Pillay graced the red carpet in hand-beaded gold brocade designs by South African designer Gert-Johan Coetzee.
South Africa’s deputy minister of arts and culture, Bertha Peace Mabe, was present in Los Angeles to witness the victory. S
he highlighted South Africa’s growing impact on the global stage, noting that 12 South African musicians have won a cumulative 32 Grammys.
“Wouter Kellerman has now won three Grammys, joining the ranks of legends like Miriam Makeba, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Black Coffee, and Tyla,” Mabe said.
“Our music scene continues to gain international recognition, blending rich traditional sounds with modern genres.”