Andrei Barbu – Tenor

Ever since childhood, music has had its way with Andrei Barbu; what started as a careless game quickly conquered a large part of his world.

Originally born in Bucharest, Romania, Andrei was (as he describes it) “tricked” into playing serious violin at the age of six… but he would always shorten his practice time and leave the “insane Paganini” for more rewarding harmonic experiments on the piano. Having been raised in a Christian family, he was exposed to church choir rehearsals and lots of music-related fun from an early age. He went on to discover artists such as The Manhattan Transfer, Take 6 and The Real Group, and became addicted to the rich harmonies of a cappella music. He went on to join vocal groups that contributed to his understanding of music and the importance of constantly confronting his limits. Throughout his development, he says, “Gospel music was very present in my life, not only as a constant source of strength and inspiration, but also as an expression of my deepest beliefs.”

Now living in Oslo (where he has learned to love wool clothing and cozy indoors), Andrei continues to study and be amazed by sound. “I feel that music has given me so much,” he says. “It’s been such a true friend on my journey and even helped me stand out from the competition in winning my wife’s heart. But most of all, it lets me experience those unique moments of wonder and glimpses of what might be beyond my human perception.”

Andrei cherishes his participation in the Oslo Gospel Choir: “It is as much fun as it is a challenge – and I love every moment of it!”