Benito Gonzalez

Born into a family of Venezuelan folk musicians, jazz pianist Benito Gonzalez has always had a deep-rooted appreciation for pastimes and traditions. Today, as a rising star of one of America’s finest musical traditions, Gonzalez has come to his current status by following in the footsteps of jazz’s ancestral forebears. The fusion of world rhythms and straight-ahead jazz makes this passionate performer an audience favorite all over the world. Benito Gonzalez is being recognized as an exciting pianist and composer for his well-received debut album ‘Starting Point’ (Christian McBride, Antonio Sanchez, Rene McLean, Ron Blake) in addition to taking home first prize at the Great American Jazz Piano Competition. Benito’s acclaimed sophomore album, ‘Circles’ (Ron Blake, Myron Walden, Azar Lawrence, Christian McBride, Jeff “Tain” Watts), reveals a very personal body of work as he emerges as a leader and an accomplished improviser. Recently, Benito received more critical attention for his work on Garrett’s Grammy-Nominated album ‘Seeds from the Underground’. After almost seven years of touring with Kenny Garrett, Benito has added numerous festivals and international jazz club dates to his credit. He has also shared the stage with Curtis Fuller, Pharaoh Sanders, Bobby Hutcherson, Christian McBride, Ignacio Berroa, Roy Hargrove, Rene McLean, Steve Turre, Hamiet Bluiett, Antonio Sanchez, T.K. Blue, Nicholas Payton, Azar Lawrence, and Jackie McLean. His multi-cultural talents have led to frequent recording dates, from American jazz masters such as Kenny Garrett and Azar Lawrence, to West African musicians and Latin bands. Benito has also served as musical director for several Venezuelan Recording Artists. Presently, Benito is touring the world with numerous jazz clubs an international festivals to his credit, including several extensive tours of Europe as leader of his own Benito Gonzalez Trio. Strait Ahead Jazz / Fusion.