Kristhyan Benitez

Kristhyan Benítez is a Venezuelan concert pianist and composer recognized for his performances in classical and Latin American music. His album "Latin American Classics," won Latin Grammy Award for Best Classical Album in 2021. He is a Steinway & Sons artist.

Early life and education Kristhyan Benítez was born in Caracas, Venezuela. He began his musical studies at the age of four with Olga Lopez, a pupil of Magda Tagliaferro. His conservatory education in Venezuela included a focus on works by Latin American and Venezuelan composers, which influenced his later career.

Career Benítez's career includes performances across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. He has collaborated with conductors like Claudio Abbado, Gustavo Dudamel, Alondra de la Parra, among others. In 2021, Benítez won the Latin Grammy for Best Classical Album for his recording Latin American Classics. His 2023 album, "Afro-Cuban Dances," earned him a second Latin Grammy nomination and features compositions by Cuban composer Ernesto Lecuona. Kristhyan served as assistant conductor of the Philharmonic Orchestra of the Americas (POA) in 2005. Beyond his performance career, Benítez is dedicated to teaching and promoting Latin American music. He actively participates in educational programs, aiming to expand the classical repertoire and inspire new generations of musicians.

His work as a composer and arranger often manifests in his improvisations and transcriptions featured on his albums, such as his improvisation on Ernesto Lecuona's "Ahí Viene el Chino" and his piano transcription of Ernestina Lecuona's song "Ahora que eres mío," both featured on his album Afro-Cuban Dances.

Chamber music In addition to his solo career, Benítez is an active chamber musician, performing in various ensembles and collaborations that highlight his versatility and engagement with different musical genres.

BENITEZ In addition to his classical music career, Benítez explores new creative territories through his alter-ego project, BENITEZ. Under this moniker, he expands his artistic universe by composing, producing, and arranging music in genres beyond classical, including Latin, electronic, funk, and jazz. This project showcases his versatility and passion for blending diverse musical styles, allowing him to reach a broader audience while maintaining his signature artistic depth. In August 2025, Billboard named him one of their “On the Radar: Latin Emerging Artists to Discover,” highlighting the growing impact of the BENITEZ project.

Musical style Benítez is known for his fusion of classical tradition with Latin American rhythms and melodies, creating a distinctive sound that resonates with diverse audiences. His work bridges the gap between classical European compositions and the folkloric traditions of Latin America. Latin American Classics, Vol. 2 (2025) – Released on August 1, 2025 by Steinway & Sons (catalog number STNS 30251). A continuation of his mission to explore Latin American piano repertoire with works from Venezuela, Cuba, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Brazil.

He has also released several singles, including "Desesperanza" (2018), "Te Extraño" (2022), "Todavía" (feat. Raquel Sofía) (2022), and "Venezuela" (2024).

Awards and recognition

Latin Grammy Award for Best Classical Album: 2021, for Latin American Classics.