Benjamin Barrile
Guitarist/Composer
Benjamin Barrile is a skilled soloist, accompanist, and composer whose compositions are modern while still honouring the Spanish gypsy tradition. Benjamin's interest in flamenco brought him to Jerez de la Frontera, a hub for flamenco in Spain, where he trained under many great maestros. Benjamin has worked with many artists, including Tamar Ilana & Ventanas, David Buchbinder, and Gustaü & Puente del Diablo, and is a music producer and co-composer for Ana LÃa. Benjamin has won two Dora Mavor Moore Awards for Outstanding Sound Design/Composition, one of which he shares with flamenco guitarist Caroline Planté. He has also been nominated for a 2020 Canadian Folk Music Award for Instrumental Solo Artist of the Year. Benjamin's debut album, 'Esperando el Alba' ('Waiting for Dawn'), reflects his struggle with musician's focal dystonia, a neurological condition that has ended the performing careers of many musicians. Despite this setback, Benjamin continues to produce and perform music, including his work as a resident guitarist for Toronto's Esmeralda Enrique Spanish Dance Company and CompañÃa Carmen Romero.