Benito Gonzalez Concerts

Experience Benito Gonzalez

Benito González is a highly respected Cuban percussionist, composer, and arranger renowned for his mastery of the *batá* drums – sacred instruments central to the Yoruba religious tradition in Cuba. Born in Havana in 1968, González began his musical journey early, studying with legendary batá masters like Virgilio Viera and Carlos “Patato” Valdés. He quickly distinguished himself not just for technical proficiency, but for a deep understanding of the spiritual and cultural context of the music.

González co-founded the internationally acclaimed group Obini Batá in 1993, propelling traditional *batá* rhythms onto global stages. Beyond Obini Batá, he’s collaborated extensively with artists spanning diverse genres including jazz (Jane Bunnett), world music (Richard Bona), and contemporary Cuban sounds (Yomil y Daniel). His compositions often blend traditional Yoruba chants and rhythms with modern arrangements.

He's a sought-after clinician, teaching workshops worldwide on *batá* technique and Afro-Cuban music. González’s contributions have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades within Cuba and internationally, solidifying his position as a leading figure in preserving and innovating Afro-Cuban percussion.