Winning a GRAMMY® is a dream for many artists, but what does it actually take to get there? South African flutist and composer Wouter Kellerman has done it three times, most recently for Triveni at the 67th Annual GRAMMY® Awards. Known for blending global musical influences and crafting deeply moving soundscapes, Kellerman’s success is built on a mix of creativity, collaboration, and strategic industry engagement.

In this interview, he breaks down what it takes to build an international career, from choosing the right collaborators to making music that resonates across cultures. His insights offer a valuable roadmap for South African artists looking to break onto the global stage—and maybe even bring home a GRAMMY® themselves.

How do you mix different musical styles and traditions in your music, and how has that helped you gain international recognition?

Wouter Kellerman: I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of blending different musical traditions. Music is a universal language, and when you merge elements from different cultures, you create something fresh and deeply moving. My collaborations have included African, Irish, Tango and Flamenco sounds – and in my latest release TRIVENI we blended South African, Indian, and Japanese influences. This fusion of sounds has helped me reach audiences worldwide, as people connect with music that transcends boundaries.

How has your music changed over time, and what steps do you take to keep your sound unique?

Wouter Kellerman: My sound has evolved over time as I’ve explored new genres and collaborations. While I started with a strong classical foundation, I’ve embraced world music influences, allowing my flute to become a voice that connects different styles. I keep my sound unique by remaining open to new experiences, whether that means working with artists from unexpected genres, experimenting with different instrumentations, or incorporating traditional elements in modern ways.

What do you look for when picking other artists to work with, especially those from different cultures, and how do these partnerships improve your music?

Wouter Kellerman: When picking collaborators, I look for artists whose sounds are emotive and passionate, and touches my heart. I value authenticity, unique cultural perspectives and the willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone. These partnerships not only enrich the musical tapestry but also challenge all of us to expand our creative horizons, resulting in work that is richer and more dynamic.

Have you faced any challenges when working with artists from different backgrounds? How did you work through them?

Wouter Kellerman: Yes, working with artists from different backgrounds sometimes presents challenges, whether it’s bridging diverse musical traditions or harmonizing different creative approaches. The key is to approach collaborations with respect and curiosity, finding common ground while allowing each artist’s voice to shine.

What did you do to get your music noticed outside South Africa, especially by people who vote for the GRAMMY®s?

Wouter Kellerman: Gaining recognition outside South Africa took years of dedication. I made a conscious effort to perform internationally, network within the industry, and collaborate with artists across borders. Being active in the GRAMMY® community, attending industry events, and ensuring my music reaches the right ears has also been crucial. Most importantly, I’ve focused on making music that speaks to people on an emotional level – because at the end of the day, that’s what truly connects us.

Can you share a time when you faced a setback in your career and explain how you overcame it?

Wouter Kellerman: Every artist faces setbacks—it’s part of the journey – in fact, it feels like you fail much more often than you succeed! I’ve had projects that didn’t take off as expected, performances that didn’t go as planned, and many moments of doubt. The key is perseverance and to keep pushing forward with passion and resilience.

How do you balance staying true to your unique style while also appealing to a wider audience?

Wouter Kellerman: Balancing artistic integrity with broad appeal is always a challenge, but I believe that authenticity is what ultimately connects with audiences. Rather than chasing trends, I focus on making music that moves me, trusting that it will find the right listeners.

What key advice would you give to emerging South African artists who dream of achieving international success and winning a GRAMMY®?

Wouter Kellerman: For emerging South African artists aiming for international success, my advice is simple: make music that moves your heart, work relentlessly on your craft – and if you can imagine it better, redo it. Build relationships in the industry, put your music out there, and manage your music business with the same attention as the music itself. Recognition doesn’t happen overnight, but with passion, persistence, and a willingness to grow, success will follow.

How can artists incorporate their own cultural roots into their music in a way that resonates with people all over the world?

Wouter Kellerman: Artists can stay true to their cultural heritage by weaving traditional sounds, stories, and instruments into their music in a way that’s reflective of their identity. When you share these elements with the world, you not only preserve your cultural legacy but also create a universal language that resonates with people everywhere. It’s about allowing your roots to inform and enrich your music for a global audience.

Wouter Kellerman’s journey proves that international success isn’t just about talent—it’s about persistence, collaboration, and staying true to your artistic vision.