The Lady in Red and Her Distinct Music: Marisa Sardo Breaks Stereotypes in Classical Guitar from Alexandria

     By Tamer Salah El_Din

For me, the guitar represents a unique and fascinating musical world. It is an instrument capable of evoking every nuance of emotion that both a listener and an artist can possibly feel. It remains a cornerstone of Spanish and Latin music, a defining element in some of the most listened-to European songs in modern music history, and an essential pillar of American country music.

So, the moment I saw Marisa Sardo walking through the audience in her beautiful red dress at the German Seamen's Club in Alexandria on the evening of Saturday, August 29, 2026, heading toward the stage with her guitar in hand, she reminded me of 'Little Red Riding Hood carrying her basket'—only she was set to feed the audience with her own distinct music. I instantly decided to conduct this interview with her, which turned out to be swift, warm, and delightfully candid.

    About Marisa Sardo

    Marisa Sardo is an acclaimed Italian-American classical guitarist and educator. Renowned for her technical precision and expressive performances, she has toured in over 25 countries as a soloist. She holds advanced degrees in classical guitar performance and is actively pioneering a blend between classical guitar traditions and heavy-metal-inspired compositions, alongside advocating for female representation in the classical music scene.

Here is the full conversation:

Tamer: First of all, do you still remember the very first concert you ever played?

Marisa: Oh yes, I do. I believe I was six years old.

Tamer: Six? Not four?

Marisa: I started playing the guitar when I was four, but my first concert was when I was six. I remember playing a piece called Allegro by the Italian composer Mauro Giuliani. I performed in front of my teacher, my parents, and a large audience. I don’t recall exactly how I felt, but I’m sure I was nervous—yet I loved performing. Everyone applauded, and that felt amazing.

Tamer: What made you stick with the guitar instead of choosing another instrument?

Marisa: Because I truly love the guitar—it’s my passion. Even at a young age, I always knew I wanted to be a musician. There was nothing else I wanted to do in life; I felt it was what I was meant to do.

Tamer: When I first heard you play, I thought it sounded somewhat symphonic—like Mozart or Beethoven. Do you incorporate classical masters like them into your music?

Marisa: I do play classical and traditional repertoire, though that isn't part of my current concert program.

Tamer: Speaking of tonight’s performance, how would you describe the music you played?

Marisa: Tonight, I played classical guitar music inspired by heavy metal. It’s a combination of classical technique and heavy metal concepts.

Tamer: You’ve performed in over 25 countries around the world. Is there a specific message you aim to share with your audience and young musicians, especially regarding women in music?

Marisa: Yes. My message, especially to young musicians, is that guitar isn't just for men. Anyone—regardless of their background or gender—can learn, play, and become successful. It’s all about putting in the work, listening to your mentors, and discovering the unique voice that defines you.

Tamer: Do you feel that women still face greater challenges in the music industry today?

Marisa: Things are starting to change for the better, but yes, I do believe it is still more difficult for women to achieve top success as classical guitarists. That’s what I’m striving to do: present a fresh, feminine perspective in music. If you find your unique feminine voice, you have something truly important to convey.

Tamer: Some might argue that many of the world's most famous singers are women. Do you see a difference in instrumental music?

Marisa: In pop music, sure. But in my field—classical guitar—the space is still heavily dominated by men. You can clearly see this in classical guitar competitions, where it remains rare for female guitarists to take top prizes.

Tamer: This is your third time visiting and performing in Egypt, correct?

Marisa: Yes, this is my third time! I played at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in 2024, did a tour across Cairo and Alexandria in 2025, and now I’m back playing here again.

Tamer: Do you find Egyptian audiences to be different from those in other countries?

Marisa: Honestly, no matter the culture or language, music connects us all. Audiences everywhere tend to react in similar, warm ways because they simply love hearing live classical guitar music.

Tamer: If Alexandria were a piece of music, how would you represent it on your guitar?

Marisa: That’s a great question! I think I would search for a piece written by an Egyptian female composer that blends traditional Egyptian musical motifs with classical Western guitar techniques. Creating or playing a cross-genre fusion like that would be incredible.

Tamer: Looking ahead, what can audiences expect from you next?

Marisa: For my upcoming season next year, my entire program will focus on classical guitar music inspired by heavy metal. What you heard tonight was a preview of that repertoire!

Tamer: Thank you so much for your time, Marisa. It was a pleasure meeting you!

Marisa: Thank you so much! It was a pleasure.