Rafael began playing the guitar at an early age, on a guitar with an action five miles high and a home made amp, that he blew up in a week! Growing up in a rough neighbourhood, Rafael began his career in the punk era, performing the music of bands such as the Sex Pistols, The Clash, the UK Subs, and many others that were equally loud and equally outrageous! 

Rafael was at the top of his game in the rock scene during his teenage years – teaching at the Yamaha School of Music and working as a session musician during the day, and performing on the big 1980s stages at night – complete with a big 80s sound, smoke bombs, lights, lycra tights, and the big 80s hairstyle!

At the age of 14, in vast contrast to his onstage image, he was introduced to Classical music,  and at 19 he was accepted into the Adelaide School of Music to pursue his interest in the classical guitar. He studied under guitarist, John Della Torre, playing the music of Spanish virtuosos, Fernando Sor and Morialo Guiliani, as well as J.S. Bach and Antonio Vivaldi.

As a soloist, he performed on a steel string guitar, and at his first concert was invited by the Multicultural Arts Forum to represent Australia in the Spanish Guitar Festival. He then became a special guest for the Forum, performing as a soloist, for many years afterwards.

However, all that changed when halfway through his studies, he was introduced to the beautiful Renaissance lute, and immediately fell in love! He switched instruments and under the tutorship of Conductor Carl Crossin (OAM), he became Concert Master for the John Dowland Singers, as well as performing lute songs from both the Italian and English repertoires. He was the lute accompanist for student exams, and performed in various Master Classes, ensembles, a string quartet, and later as a soloist.

Over the years, Rafael has received many favourable reviews in magazines and newspapers, appearing on television and radio. He has spent many years teaching in various Schools of Music and International Schools in Adelaide, Sydney and Canberra, sharing his skills with others. He has worked as a songwriter, session musician, and producer, working with some of the finest musicians, Masterers, and engineers in the world.

Rafael currently resides in the beautiful State of Tasmania, Australia.   returned to the solo guitar repertoire and now enjoys recording the works of new and unknown composers, while also writing his own music.