Cellist Valentin Radutiu Appointed Professor at Rice University's Shepherd School of Music

The German-Romanian cellist will succeed longstanding Rice professor Desmond Hoebig

The Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, in Texas, has announced that cellist Valentin Radutiu has been appointed to a cello professorship. Radutiu's tenure will begin on July 1, 2025 — at which point he will succeed Desmond Hoebig, who has taught at Rice for more than three decades.

Born in Munich, Radutiu received his earliest cello lessons from his father Emil Radutiu, who had fled communist Romania in 1977. Radutiu furthered his studies in Salzburg, Vienna, and Berlin with Clemens Hagen, Heinrich Schiff, and David Geringas.

Since 2019, Radutiu has served as the principal cellist of the Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin. He frequently appears with other orchestras as guest principal, including the Mahler Chamber Orchestra and Munich Radio Orchestra. He has also been a guest section cellist in the Berlin Philharmonic.

Radutiu has appeared as a soloist with the Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra, Munich Philharmonic, Czech Philharmonic, Jerusalem Symphony, National Romanian Symphony, and the Bucharest Radio Orchestra.

"I am honored to join the esteemed faculty at the Shepherd School of Music," said Radutiu. "Having had the privilege of outstanding teachers who have influenced me far beyond cello playing, I have found passing on the art of playing the cello and the meaning of musicianship to be an essential part of my life. To be able to pursue this passion at this renowned institution and to help the new generation of cellists find a fulfilling and meaningful place in the musical world of the 21st century fills me with great joy and excitement."

"Valentin’s extensive teaching experience and passion for guiding aspiring cellists is clearly remarkable," said Matthew Loden, Dean of the Shepherd School. "Having already served as a cello professor and conducted master classes around the globe, he is well prepared to inspire and develop the next generation of musicians here at Rice."

"Desmond Hoebig has been a cornerstone of the Shepherd School for more than 30 years, leaving an indelible mark as both a teacher and performer," Loden continued. "His remarkable journey as a soloist and section leader in top orchestras has elevated our program while inspiring generations of students. As he approaches his retirement in 2025, we honor Desmond’s legacy and extend our heartfelt gratitude for the lasting impact he has made."

"Valentin’s journey as a musician is truly inspiring, rooted in a rich familial heritage and shaped by his experiences across Europe," said search committee chair Norman Fischer, the Herbert S. Autrey Professor of Cello and director of chamber music. "His deep understanding of the cello combined with his commitment to mentoring young artists stood out during the selection process. We know he will undoubtedly enrich our students’ musical education and foster their artistic growth."