Wouter Kellerman

Wouter Kellerman is a South African flautist, composer, producer and philanthropist whose innovative approach to music has earned him massive international acclaim. Classically trained, Kellerman has successfully blended African musical traditions with classical, world, jazz and contemporary influences to create a distinctive sound that has captivated audiences around the globe. His career has seen him become one of South Africa's most successful instrumental artists, winning three Grammy Awards and numerous South African Music Awards. Born in Johannesburg, Kellerman studied flute from an early age and initially pursued a career as an electrical engineer before turning to music full time in his forties. His debut album, Colour, introduced his unique musical style and was followed by a series of acclaimed releases including Two Voices, Mzansi, Winds of Samsara, Love Language, In a Different Light, Pangaea and Triveni. His collaborations with artists such as Ricky Kej, Nomcebo Zikode, Zakes Bantwini, David Arkenstone, Chandrika Tandon and Eru Matsumoto have further established him as a global ambassador for South African music. Kellerman's greatest international breakthrough came with Winds of Samsara, which reached number one on the US Billboard New Age Albums Chart and earned the Grammy Award for Best New Age Album in 2015. He won a second Grammy in 2023 for the song Bayethe, alongside Nomcebo Zikode and Zakes Bantwini, and a third in 2025 for Triveni, making him one of South Africa's most decorated Grammy-winning musicians. He has also received nine South African Music Awards, including honours for Best Instrumental Album, Producer of the Year and Best International Achievement. Beyond recording and touring internationally, Kellerman performed at the closing ceremony of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and has appeared at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall and the Grammy Museum. His commitment to philanthropy, music education and cultural collaboration has earned him widespread recognition, including an honorary doctorate from the Tshwane University of Technology. Today, Wouter Kellerman continues to represent South African music on the world stage through performances that celebrate both technical excellence and cross cultural unity.