Pierre van der Westhuizen was born into a musical family in Pretoria in 1961, youngest of 6 children. His love for music was evident since early childhood. His 1st performance was in church, at the tender age of 4, singing the hymn “Worthy is the Lamb”. He enchanted audiences even as a little primary school boy.
He had voice training under Wilhelmina Dunbar and later attended the Opera School in Pretoria under Eric Muller, participating as Tenor Soloist. The message of sharing the Gospel in music is very real to him as a soloist and member (first tenor) of the Gospel Quartet Melody 4. Pierre can relate many experiences about the influence of gospel music in people’s lives.
Pierre is a dynamic and committed musical artist who deeply touches the emotions of audiences, connecting with people from all walks of life. His voice has been described as rich, resonant and compelling, with clear tones and impressive agility. Although classically trained, he is not limited to serious classical music, but has extended himself to inspirational, gospel and love songs, pursuing his illustrious solo career.
He is a true pioneer in gospel music in South Africa! He is one of the first soloists to make a record of Christian music in 1986 (Sounds His Praise), in the days when Gospel music was still in its infancy. Pierre expresses the substance/core of the Christian experience in his music. His musical talent and sensitive interpretations strike the right chord in believers’ hearts and inspire a longing for the Eternal. He says: “It is truly my passionate desire to spread God’s Love in this way!” Hence the title of his album “My Passion”.
Pierre has built an extensive concert repertoire and has performed numerous solo concerts in South Africa, the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Zimbabwe and Namibia with his gospel singing ministry.
Supportive international and local television and radio stations include Hope Channel, 3ABN, Kruiskyk, DKNT Gospel, LLBN, Radio Pulpit and Radio RSG.
His latest Album “When you say you Love me” was released in May 2015 with a collection of wonderful songs amongst others: To Believe; When you say you love me; Somewhere; with many more favourites…during the past 2 years, another 35 songs have been recorded – looking forward to releasing another three albums of Inspiration, Love and Gratitude.
On a personal level Pierre has been blessed with 2 beautiful children. His daughter, Rosamund, studied her double Masters degree in Music at Zurcher Hochschedule der Kunste ZHdK. Both her and her husband Matthias have recently joined the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra as cellists. His son Xander, is co-founder of Strange Love Promotions - a Commercial Editing Company in Cape Town, South Africa. He is also a drummer at heart.
Pierre is available to perform for: Weddings, Corporate Functions, Church Services, Christmas Shows, Charity Fund Raisers, Shows with Choirs, House Concerts, Ladies Tea Parties, Evangelistic Meetings, Private and Year End Functions, Retirement Villages, MC, Festivals and Birthday Celebrations.
“It is truly my passionate desire to make people aware of God’s Love, Grace and Mercy”