Japanese Cellist Shines at the 2025 Grammy Awards
Japanese cellist Eru Matsumoto has secured her second Grammy Award, winning in the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category at the 2025 Grammy Awards held in Los Angeles. She won the accolade alongside South African flutist Wouter Kellerman and Indian American vocalist Chandrika Tandon for their collaborative album, “Triveni.”
The category also featured a nomination for Ryuichi Sakamoto’s “Opus,” a touching tribute capturing the final solo piano performance of the legendary Japanese composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, who passed away in 2023.
Key Highlights of Eru Matsumoto’s Grammy Win
• Eru Matsumoto wins Best New Age Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards
• Collaborated with Wouter Kellerman and Chandrika Tandon on “Triveni”
• Second Grammy win for Matsumoto; her first was in 2022 for “Mythologies”
• “Opus” by Ryuichi Sakamoto was also nominated in the same category
• Triveni is part of a film project capturing Sakamoto’s final performance
Eru Matsumoto: A Rising Star in Classical and New Age Music
Eru Matsumoto has been making waves in the classical and new age music industry for years. The talented Japanese cellist first gained international recognition for her exceptional artistry and collaborations with renowned musicians.
Her recent Grammy win for “Triveni” highlights her ability to blend diverse musical influences, bringing together elements of Japanese, South African, and Indian American traditions into a beautifully orchestrated album.
“Triveni”: A Unique Musical Collaboration
The award-winning album “Triveni” is a collaboration between Eru Matsumoto, Wouter Kellerman, and Chandrika Tandon. Their combined expertise in cello, flute, and vocal performance created an album that stands out in the new age and ambient music genre.
The title “Triveni” represents the confluence of three powerful musical styles, merging Eastern and Western influences into a meditative, immersive experience. This cross-cultural collaboration has resonated with listeners worldwide, earning it the prestigious Grammy Award for Best New Age Album.
A Tribute to Ryuichi Sakamoto
The Grammy-winning album was recorded as part of a film project honoring Ryuichi Sakamoto, one of Japan’s most internationally recognized composers. Sakamoto’s album “Opus” was also nominated in the same category, making the competition fierce.
Sakamoto, known for his pioneering work in electronic, classical, and film music, passed away in 2023, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire artists worldwide.
Eru Matsumoto’s Impact on Modern Classical and Ambient Music
Eru Matsumoto’s Grammy win reinforces her position as a leading figure in modern classical and ambient music. She is known for her:
✔ Exceptional mastery of the cello, blending classical and contemporary styles
✔ Cross-cultural collaborations, working with artists from around the world
✔ Contribution to film projects and soundtracks, enhancing cinematic experiences
✔ Dedication to pushing musical boundaries, bringing fresh perspectives to traditional music
What’s Next for Eru Matsumoto?
With two Grammy Awards under her belt, Matsumoto is expected to continue exploring new musical landscapes. Whether through solo performances, collaborations, or film scores, her journey is far from over.
Fans and music enthusiasts eagerly await her next project, as she continues to inspire with her artistic excellence and deep emotional storytelling through music.
Conclusion: A Well-Deserved Win for a Global Talent
Eru Matsumoto’s Grammy victory for “Triveni” is a testament to her skill, dedication, and ability to connect people through music. By blending cultural influences and experimenting with sound, she has cemented her place among the top contemporary classical and ambient musicians.
As the world celebrates her achievement, Matsumoto remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians, proving that music knows no boundaries.
Source: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/culture/2025/02/05/music/grammy-awards-eru-matsumoto/
