Setting The Pulse: Meet 5 Incredible Female Guitarists!
Posted Mar 24, 2025
Welcome to the latest episode of “Setting the Pulse" an ongoing series showcasing a select group of PRS Pulse Artists from around the globe. In recognition of International Women's History Month, this time we shine a light on five female guitarists making waves in their respective corners of the world.
Below, get to know Kia Rose (Canada), Sarah Sheriff (USA), Federica “Fade” Mapelli (Italy), Min (Japan), and Katya (UK)!
Kia Rose
Kia Rose is an ambitious 23-year-old composer, vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and producer hailing from Toronto, Canada. Kia brings a unique, melodic, and jazzy flare to the Pop world. Paired with her unmistakable soft-sweet toned vocals and bright pink aesthetic, Kia has managed to make waves with over 300,000 streams to date and has been featured on IHeartRadio, EARMILK, and Galore among others.
Not only is Kia the primary writer and producer of her own music, but she recently finished a play run as the lead guitarist on the Tony award winning show, “SIX”. Other recent projects include, “Billboard in Concert” at The Capitol Theatre, session work with various artists and producers including top 10 Billboard artist Kayla Diamond, music directing local Canadian acts as well as headlining some of Toronto’s most iconic venues including Sneaky Dee’s, The Drake Underground and Downtown Young events. As one of the youngest guitarists in the history of musical theatre and a jack of all trades, she is one to look out for.
“The Pulse family has some of the most supportive and talented individuals I have had the pleasure of meeting and collaborating with for the past four years. Not only have PRS guitars played a pivotal role in my sound as a player but being a Pulse Artist has opened so many doors and led me to an amazing community of musicians that I’m immensely grateful to have access to and be a part of." - Kia
Sarah Sheriff
Sarah Sheriff is a Central Pennsylvania based guitarist and a proud member of the PRS Pulse Program since 2021. She is currently touring with rising country artist Gillian Smith, serving as both lead guitarist and musical director, helping to shape the band’s sound and live performances. Together, they have shared the stage with country superstars like Brooks & Dunn, Bret Michaels, Lainey Wilson, and Luke Bryan, performing on major stages across the United States.
With thirty years of experience and a formal education in music, she is a seasoned performer driven by a deep passion for learning. She has spent years buying, selling, and trading guitars in pursuit of the perfect instrument, which has led her to an arsenal of PRS guitars that span the diverse styles she plays - classic rock, country, and praise and worship. Influenced by legends like Vince Gill, Jerry Cantrell, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Billy Gibbons, she brings a dynamic fusion of raw grit and soulful expression. Endlessly curious and always in motion, Sarah thrives on the next adventure, both on stage and beyond.
"Being part of the PRS Pulse Program is a dream come true. To be supported by a brand I’ve admired since I was a little girl is an incredible honor. As a multi-genre artist, I seek guitars that offer limitless sonic possibilities, and PRS exceeds every expectation. What makes this partnership even sweeter is their commitment to championing, empowering, and valuing female musicians in an industry that still has so many barriers. I am beyond proud to be part of the PRS family." - Sarah
Sarah Sheriff (@sarah_sheriff)
Federica Mapelli
Federica "Fade" Mapelli is an Italian guitarist born in 1994. She has been studying guitar since she was a teenager. She is currently the guitarist for Italian cartoon rock band Cristoni D'Avena and continues her work a solo artist. She has taken part in several events including 'The 2025 NAMM Show' in support of her endorsements. She has been part of the PRS family as a Pulse Artist for four years and continues to live out her musical dreams.
“Having had the opportunity to be part of the PRS family has always been an honor and a great dream come true. This experience is giving me the chance to meet, play and collaborate with musicians from all over the world! As if that wasn't enough this year, I had the opportunity to participate in the 40th Anniversary celebration of PRS, attending an incredible concert and also meeting Mr. Paul and Bev in person! I still have goosebumps from all of this. Thank you for your affection!” - Federica
Federica Fade Mapelli (@federicamapelli_guitarist)
Min
Min is a guitarist from Japan, most well-known for founding the band Jungfrau in 2021 and releasing their debut EP that same year. After studying music production and performance at the ESP music school, she transitioned into support work, performing at various live events. She plans to revive Jungfrau this year and release new music.
“My experience with PRS and Pulse has been incredibly inspiring. The quality and innovation that PRS brings to the table always motivates me to push the boundaries of my playing.” - Min
KATYA
Meet singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist KATYA who is known for her refreshingly personal solo performances where she combines her soulful vocals, layered guitar and keys with electronic beats, jazz overtones and atmospheric soundscapes, courtesy of numerous triggered effects. KATYA’s genre-blending music and intriguing solo live set-up got her recognized and played on BBC Radio 1 and BBC "Introducing London" and featured in Spotify editorials. She has performed at numerous major UK festivals including twice at Glastonbury.
KATYA’s true passion lies in the creation and live performance of her music where she communicates with her audience in an open and honest way, revealing elements of herself through music and conversation that have the power to still and silence a sea of people then bring them to their feet dancing and singing her catchy, uplifting lyrics.
"It’s an honour to have been selected as a PRS Pulse Artist for 2025. My Custom 24 and Piezo have accompanied me on many an adventure – from festivals including Glastonbury and Kendal Calling and to shows all over the UK from Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall to Birmingham’s Symphony Hall to London’s Royal Albert Hall. These guitars’ range in tone and versatility is unmatched and as a small person with very small hands they are the most comfortable guitars I’ve ever played. I look forward to connecting with more Pulse Artists over the year ahead and taking these guitars on the road with me again very soon." - Katya
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