It’s not every day you meet an opera singer, cellist, and music teacher who seamlessly shifts between coaching young talents and performing on global stages. That’s exactly the kind of life Nilisa Marie Barredo Victor — also known as Marie Gold or Coach Nes — has crafted for herself.
For the past three years, she has lived in Dubai, balancing her career as a freelance performer and educator. But her journey started long before her move abroad — in a home filled with music, encouragement, and dreams of something greater.
Music was planted at home and grew with purpose
Marie’s deep connection to music can be traced back to her childhood. “My love for music began at home, thanks to my mother, who introduced my sisters and me to music at a young age,” she shares. It was her mother’s guidance that set the stage for what would become a life’s work centered around sound and story.
In the Philippines, she wore many hats — teaching voice at the Santa Isabel College Conservatory of Music Extension Program, performing as a cellist and singer with major events companies, and coaching students across different studios. She also taught grade school music at PAREF Woodrose School for Girls, where she was later invited back to lead the choral program.
When the pandemic hit, and the industry slowed down, she didn’t stop. She pivoted — founding Prestige Music and Arts, a small academy that kept her afloat through performances and online music streams. “I had to sustain myself and still find ways to grow my artistry,” she recalls. It was during this difficult time that Marie solidified her mantra: “Fueled by Music. Guided by Purpose. Lived with Passion and Excellence.”
By 2022, she was ready for something new — and brave enough to pursue it. She moved to Dubai and began working at a music academy. Eventually, she chose to freelance, allowing her more flexibility to balance performing, collaborating, and providing personalized coaching.
From struggle to stage: Making space in a new world
The decision to leave her home country was not driven solely by career ambition. “I chose to work abroad because I wanted a sustainable career at a time when opportunities in the Philippines were scarce,” she explains. “But more than that, I wanted to grow — to challenge myself in new environments, meet diverse communities, and carry with me the pride of being a Filipino artist on international stages.”
Yet starting over was not easy. “Moving to Dubai was a leap of faith. I faced loneliness, financial struggles, and the fear of starting over in a foreign land. There were times I questioned if I had made the right choice,” she recalls. But Marie never let go of her core support systems. “Through it all, God was my anchor and my family my strength.”
In Dubai, she found opportunities she had once only dreamed of — performing as a cellist at the Disney announcement event, becoming a soloist at the 20th Emirates International Peace Music Festival, and joining the UAE Philharmonic Orchestra. She also participated in the Harmony Under One Sky initiative by the Emirati Musicians’ Association, proudly representing Filipino talent in a multicultural space.
Recognition came in the form of certificates and invitations: from the Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra to a vocal workshop she led at SAE University. But beyond credentials, what matters most to her is connection. “Music is more than a profession — it’s my purpose,” she says. “It’s the language through which I connect with people, and the passion that gives my life meaning.”
Marie finds joy in both sides of her current work — the stage and the classroom. “On stage, I bring stories and emotions to life, while in teaching, I guide students to discover their own musical voices. Seeing them grow, perform, and shine brings me deep satisfaction,” she says.
Carrying the Filipino voice forward with every note
What keeps her grounded in this journey is her deep sense of identity and purpose. “I am proud to be a Filipino living in the UAE, a country that has embraced me with incredible opportunities and a thriving music scene,” Marie shares.
She remains uncertain about where her path may lead — whether back to the Philippines, remaining in the UAE, or exploring new countries — but she is crystal clear about her dream: “I want to build a music academy that nurtures talent and shares classical music and Philippine music with the world.”
Part of this dream includes mentoring two promising Filipino singers — particularly those who might not otherwise have the means to pursue their passion. “It’s my way of giving back,” she says. “Providing them with opportunities to perform — a way to plant the seeds of artistry for the next generation.”
Marie also extends her advice to fellow Filipinos abroad who might be struggling with their own uncertainties. “Life abroad is full of challenges — moments of doubt, loneliness, and struggle can feel overwhelming,” she admits. But her encouragement is firm: “Never forget your roots, your faith, and the strength within you. Stay resilient, choose your circle wisely, and hold on to your dreams even when the path is uncertain.”
Her story is not one of overnight success, but of deep faith, consistent effort, and unwavering love for her craft. “Music has taken me far beyond what I could imagine,” she reflects. “But my greatest joy is sharing it with others.”
