Benji Rifati

Trumpet

Benji Rifati is an American-Rom who has spent years studying trumpet from Romani masters of Eastern Europe. Immersed in Balkan music since he was a toddler, Benji was first inspired to play by the legendary trumpeter, Zahir Ramadanov. Zahir later became his teacher, along with Serbian trumpet legend Demiran Ćerimović. Recently, Benji has studied more modern styles, blending Turkish and Tallava with brass. Džambo Agušev has been his most recent mentor and inspiration. Benji has spent summers traveling and playing weddings in the Balkans with Džambo Aguševi Orkestar. Benji recently moved to New York, and is playing with Novi Hitovi brass band. Through his studies and projects he hopes to spread the intricate artistry of Romani brass music throughout the States and beyond, while educating American/non-Balkan populations on Romani culture, history, and traditions.