Ratko Zjaca

Ratko Zjaca - is an award winning guitarist, composer and recording artist with 18 critically acclaimed recordings under his name ,he has recorded and performed with some of the most influential musicians in jazz and modern improvisation music. He studied and graduated from Zagreb University. In his drive for the necessary knowledge and the enormous need for studies he sought his refuge in The Netherlands at the Rotterdam Conservatory, famous for its studies of modern music. After completing his study at the Rotterdam Conservatory, he also studied at New York University School of Music. He is highly respected in the jazz community for his improvisational skills and ability to craft complex, emotive compositions. Zjaca has collaborated with a many of renowned jazz artists, including John Patitucci, Al Foster, Steve Gadd , Miroslav Vitous , Reggie Workman, Antonio Sanchez, Adam Nussbaum, Randy Brecker , Jeff Tain Watts, John Riley, Trilok Gurtu , Marius Preda , Simone Zanchini and many others,showcasing his ability to adapt and interact with some of the top musicians in the field. His solo guitar album “Archtop Avenue” was chosen to be on the 33rd place of the best 100 jazz albums in 2023 selected for the "American Jazz Journalists Association”. Ratko plays exclusively on custom-built guitars by master American luthier Cris Mirabella, whose craftsmanship enhances the depth and character of his music. www.ratkozjaca.com