FLAMENCO, NUEVA FLAMENCO
Toronto-born guitarist Benjamin Barrile, rooted in flamenco traditions, prefers expressing emotions through his instrument rather than words. A skilled soloist, he also excels as an accompanist and composer. His dynamic and progressive compositions respect the Spanish Roma tradition while adding a modern touch.
In 2000, Benjamin traveled to Spain, a country that had long intrigued him, to explore flamenco and shape his artistic path. He studied in Jerez de la Frontera with many renowned maestros. Back in Toronto, he credits much of his flamenco guitar and compositional skills to Miguel de la Bastide.
Recently, Benjamin has performed and recorded with various artists and groups, including Tamar Ilana & Ventanas, Gustaü & Puente del Diablo, The Café Olé, and Pamel Mancebo. He also works as a music producer and co-composer for Ana Lía. Additionally, he leads his project and is a resident guitarist with Toronto’s Esmeralda Enrique Spanish Dance Company and Compañia Carmen Romero. He notably performed in the North American premiere of Don Quixote with the National Ballet of Canada. Benjamin has won two Dora Mavor Moore Awards for Outstanding Sound Design & Composition, one shared with flamenco guitarist Caroline Planté, and received a 2020 Canadian Folk Music Award nomination for Instrumental Solo Artist of the Year.
His debut album, ‘Esperando el Alba’ (‘Waiting for Dawn’), reflects his challenging battle with musician’s focal dystonia, a condition that often ends musicians’ careers.
