Biography of Andreas Vollenweider

Swiss Musician and Composer

Andreas Vollenweider was born on October 4, 1953, in Zurich, Switzerland. His father, Hans Vollenweider, was one of the most renowned organists in Europe. Growing up surrounded by artists, sculptors, musicians, dancers, and writers, Andreas developed a passion for collecting musical instruments and began playing professionally on the guitar, piano, flute, and harp. Despite his attempts to take harp lessons, Andreas struggled and had to create his own unique style of playing.

In 1979, he released his first solo album titled "Eine Art Suite en 13 Teilen" (Another Suite in 13 Parts), which was only available in Switzerland and became nearly impossible to find in other countries. However, several of the tracks from this album were later included in his "Trilogy" album. Prior to this album, Andreas played in the ensemble "Poetry & Music" and recorded three albums with them.

In 1981, his album "Behind the Garden..." was released under the CBS label and immediately received enthusiastic reviews from critics and accolades from magazines. It was followed by "Caverna Magica," which also garnered praise from listeners. This marked the beginning of Andreas' international recognition, with sold-out concerts in both America and Europe. In 1984, he composed the soundtrack for a film dedicated to Greenpeace. This was followed by the albums "White Winds" and "Down to the Moon," and after a two-year hiatus, "Dancing with the Lion." Two years later, he released the album "Book of Roses." In 1987, "Down to the Moon" won a Grammy Award.

His 1993 album, "Eolian Minstrel," featured a vocalist for the first time, Eliza Gilkyson. The lyrics on the album were a collaboration between Andreas and Eliza. His final album, "Kryptos," was released in 1997 and featured arrangements by a symphony orchestra.

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