Marcus Ratka

Marcus Ratka is the Rector and Professor of Theory/Arrangement/Composition at the JAM MUSIC LAB Private University for Jazz and Popular Music, part of the Faculty of Music. His academic journey includes PhD studies on “Composition in Jazz” at the University of Music and Performing Arts, Vienna (since 2007). He holds a Mag. Phil. in Musicology (2007) and diplomas in Jazz Theory (1999) and Jazz Guitar (1997) from the Vienna Conservatory.

Teaching roles span institutions like the Friedrich Gulda School of Music (since 2011) and the University of Music “Franz Liszt” in Weimar (2008–2011), where he led jazz department composition classes. His research focuses on jazz composition and artistic pedagogy, co-founding JAM MUSIC LAB as rector in 2017. He actively organizes international jazz events, festivals, and competitions, including the “Michael Brecker Saxophone Competition.”

His artistic contributions include CDs such as Peter Erskine & The JAM MUSIC LAB Allstars, Vienna to Hollywood (2025) and Chameleon Changes (2016). Collaborations with renowned artists like Joe Zawinul and Branford Marsalis highlight his freelance career. Leadership roles include executive directorships of JAM MUSIC LAB GmbH and chairing events like the Red Sea Jazz Festival.

Volunteer roles include board memberships with “Music in Progress” and the Falco Private Foundation, alongside jury duties for prestigious competitions. His pedagogical innovations and advocacy for jazz education have shaped curricula and institutional strategies across Europe.