Biography
Sacha Bistany is an Irish guitarist currently studying for a bachelor’s degree at the Royal College of Music (RCM), London under professors Gary Ryan and Christopher Stell. Sacha previously studied at the Royal Irish Academy of Music under Marion Hyland and Peter Katona and received five scholarships based on annual assessments throughout his time there. Sacha has had the opportunity to play with a number of Irish guitar ensembles including the ‘GuitaRIAM’ ensemble and the Irish National Youth Guitar Orchestra, conducted by David Brophy. He has competed in many music competitions including Ireland’s national competition, The ‘Feis Ceol’ – winning was a great achievement. During the last few years, Sacha has participated in a number of masterclasses with well-renowned guitarists including Xuefei Yang, Tariq Harb and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet – all of which have helped broaden his scope as a player. Sacha is currently supported by Talent Unlimited, an organisation designed to aid in the development of young musicians through concerts and other musical events.
At RCM, Sacha is a member four small ensembles: a guitar–flute duo, a guitar– voice duo, a guitar duo and a guitar quartet. He has a great interest in chamber music and frequently arranges for his ensembles.
Aside from classical music, Sacha has a great love for all things, jazz and funk, and frequently collaborates with the RCM Big Band led by Mark Armstrong. He is always keen to incorporate his many influences into his classical playing.
