A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Mario Raskin started his musical studies (harmony, counterpoint, composition) at the National Conservatory of Buenos Aires, soon choosing the harpsichord as his principal instrument. In 1978, Mario Raskin was given a scholarship by Rafael Puyana to participate in masterclasses organized by the Festivals of Granada and Saint Jacques de Compostelle. Mario soon afterwards moved to Paris in order to continue his studies with Mr. Puyana. A few years later, following masterclasses with Kenneth Gilbert and Scott Ross, Mario was invited by Mr. Ross to study at the Laval University of Québec. Under his direction, Mario obtained his Master’s Degree in the Performing Arts (1983).
Mario then settled in Paris where he leads an active career as recitalist and chamber musician, performing regularly throughout France, Europe and North and South America. With fellow compatriot and harpsichordist Oscar Milani, they transcribed works of J.S. Bach and Astor Piazzola for the Raskin-Milani duo which performs regularly throughout France and Germany. They also recorded two albums of tangos by Piazzola which were celebrated by the press and public.
In 1996 Mario created the music festival « La Saison Musicale de Montsoreau » (The Musical Season of Montsoreau), which he directed for the first seven years. The festival will soon celebrate its 20 year anniversary.
Mario Raskin is harpsichord professor since 1989 at the Music School of Joinville-le-Pont.