Bio

Rooted in the traditions of flamenco, Toronto born guitarist Benjamin Barrile prefers to speak through his instrument, expressing emotion without words. A remarkable soloist, Benjamin also excels as both an accompanist and composer. His compositions are dynamic and progressive while still honouring the enduring Spanish Roma tradition, evolving it with contemporary flair.

In 2000 Benjamin set off to Spain for the first time, a country that had long captivated his imagination, in search of flamenco and what would become a quest that would profoundly shape his artistic trajectory. He travelled to one of the major centres of flamenco in Spain today, Jerez de la Frontera, where he studied under many great maestros. Back home in Toronto, Benjamin attributes a significant portion of his flamenco guitar skills and compositional training to Miguel de la Bastide.

In recent years, Benjamin has performed and recorded for many artists and groups, including Tamar Ilana & Ventanas, Gustaü & Puente del Diablo, The Café Olé and Pamel Mancebo. Benjamin also actively works as a music producer and c0-composer for Ana Lía. In addition to leading his project, Benjamin is also a resident guitarist at Toronto-based Esmeralda Enrique Spanish Dance Company and Compañia Carmen Romero. Notably, he performed in the North American premiere of Don Quixote with the National Ballet of Canada. Benjamin is also the recipient of two Dora Mavor Moore Awards for Outstanding Sound Design/Composition, one of which he shares with flamenco guitarist Caroline Planté. He also has a 2020 Canadian Folk Music Award nomination for Instrumental Solo Artist of the Year.

Benjamin's debut album 'Esperando el Alba' ('Waiting for Dawn') reflects upon his long and arduous battle with musician's focal dystonia, an all too often career-ending neurological condition for many musicians.