Ariel Kalma

Obituary

Remembering Ariel Kalma (1946 – 2025)
It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Ariel Kalma, who crossed over to the Other Side on 4 June 2025, peacefully in the arms of his beloved son Joël.
Born in Paris in 1947, Ariel Kalma was a pioneer of ambient and new-age music whose creative spirit touched hearts around the world. From his early days playing saxophone and flute in France to his later explorations in tape loops, field recordings and meditation music, Ariel’s life was a lifelong conversation between sound, silence and the soul.
After settling in the Byron region in 1997, Ariel became part of the local rhythm of life. For many years, he found great joy in visiting garage sales across the area, hunting for clothing for his family, toys for his adored grandchildren, and curious treasures for the house and garden. Many also remember him playing saxophone at drum circles at the local markets, where his music wove people together in joy and connection. He and his wife Ama created local independent label Music Mosaic to support independent artists and bring different cultures around the world together.
Despite losing most of his hearing and much vitality to cancers in recent years, Ariel continued to create, collaborate and share his music passionately, knowing that he had very little time left. His dedication, humour, willingness to be silly, gentle presence, and full smile inspired all who knew him.
Ariel will be deeply missed by the love of his life Ama, his beloved son Joël and very loved daughter-in-law Becka, and his cherished grandchildren Locki and Nico; by his many musical collaborators and listeners around the world; and by all those in the community who felt the warmth, wonder, and generosity of his presence.
His light and music will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who were touched by his sound and his love. We feel him with us as we hear him play, in the reflective depths of his love for life and the universe.
He wrote this a few years ago,: 
I will miss youThe morning dew The song of birdsThe ocean
I will miss youThe wind, the trees, Rose buds and music notes
I will miss youThis grand son and brotherAnd my family so close
I will miss youMy companion on the journeyMy friend, my wife
I will miss the lifeThat was so goodAlong the years Along the pathAnd the sweet perfume of life 
- Ariel Kalma (1946 – 2025)

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