Benjamin Barrile

Rooted in the traditions of flamenco, guitarist Benjamin Barrile prefers to speak through his instrument, expressing emotion without words. A remarkable soloist, Benjamin also excels as both accompanist and composer. His compositions are dynamic and progressive without straying too far from Spanish gypsy tradition that stretches back hundreds of years.

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 be the most significant journey of his life so far. 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 recorded for many artists, including Tamar Ilana & Ventanas, David Buchbinder, The Café Olé, and Gustaü & Puente del Diablo. In addition to leading his own project, Benjamin is also a resident guitarist at Toronto-based Esmeralda Enrique Spanish Dance Company and Compañia Carmen Romero. 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.