Radu Rățoi

  • Accordion

Radu Rățoi, born on 20 September 1998 in Chișinău, Moldova, stands as a prominent accordion player, internationally acclaimed by music critics. His remarkable career is punctuated by victories in over 40 national and international competitions, establishing him as one of the most accomplished accordion players of his generation.

Initiating his musical journey at the age of 6 at the School of Arts in Chișinău, specifically "Alexei Starcea," Rățoi's exceptional talent earned him enrollment as a student at the Center of Excellence in Artistic Education, "Stefan Neaga," following his victory in a competition at the age of 9. This early recognition marked the commencement of formal training under the tutelage of esteemed instructors.

In 2017, Rățoi's commitment and contributions to the cultural sphere were acknowledged with the prestigious "Best Student in Cultural Activity of the Year" award from the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova. Undeterred by his successes, he pursued higher education, obtaining both bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen, studying under the distinguished accordion teacher, Geir Draugsvoll.

In 2018, his exceptional contributions were honored with the "Diploma of Excellence" by the President of the Republic of Moldova. Rățoi's prowess extends to international stages, with laurels from renowned competitions including Coupe Mondiale (2018), Trophy Mondiale (2018), Klingenthal Accordion Competition (2019), Arrasate Competition (2019), and the International Accordion Competition Moscow (2020).

A crowning achievement in 2022 saw Rățoi being conferred with the esteemed "Master in Arts" distinction, one of the highest Moldavian National honors, presented by President Maia Sandu. His stellar career as a soloist has graced some of the most esteemed concert halls in Europe and Asia, including the Berlin Philharmonic, Radio Concert House Copenhagen, Victoria Concert Hall, Copenhagen Tivoli Hall, Yerevan Aram Khachaturian's Concert Hall, Harbin Concert Hall, and many others.