Cellist Abel Selaocoe Signs with Warner Classics

Based in Manchester, he is currently preparing for his debut recording, which embraces jazz, world, and Baroque collaborations

The South African cellist, singer, and composer is the recipient of the Paul Hamlyn Composition Award and the UK’s PRS Foundation “Power Up Award.”

A graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music, Selaocoe recently made his BBC Proms debut with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and conductor Clark Rundell in a self-curated program — celebrating African and Western Classical music.

The upcoming album on the Warner Classics label will be centered around understanding “different ways we seek refuge, not always a place of comfort but one of empowerment that allows potential to live a fulfilled life.”

“I am so excited to be joining the Warner Music family,” he said. “A great home where my love for African and Classical music can live in one space,” he added.

“What is remarkable about Abel Selaocoe’s artistry is his ability to unify multiple genres with absolute ease and conviction — whether he is playing a Bach Sarabande, improvising on African songs, or creating new sounds on voice and cello,” said Bertrand Castellani, Vice President of Warner Classics. 

“It is an honor to welcome Abel into the Warner Classics family and we’re all excited to help share his musicianship worldwide.”