Andreas Vollenweider

The Profile

Andreas Vollenweider (born 1953, Zurich) is a Swiss harpist and composer known for pioneering the electroacoustic harp and blending new age and world elements. He won a Grammy for Down to the Moon and has collaborated with artists including Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

Swiss harpist; born 1953 in Zurich; son of organist Hans Vollenweider; developed an electroacoustic harp in 1975; Grammy Award (Best New Age Album, 1987) for Down to the Moon; collaborated with Ladysmith Black Mambazo on Book of Roses (1991).

A deeply affectionate 5-star review of Book of Roses (1991): Vollenweider’s electroacoustic harp weaves mystical, world-infused atmospheres. Tracks segue without pauses, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo adds vocals. The album becomes a personal life soundtrack, evoking fantasy imagery and spiritual uplift.