Simply the Baez

From learning the Joan Baez song ‘Old Blue’ as her first five-year-old venture into playing guitar, to taking to the ASB Theatre stage as her doppelgänger, the music of the folk icon has been a lifelong love for Anthina Sophia.

So, this October 11 at the Stars in Your Eyes event in Blenheim, the registered nurse and part time guitar teacher at Linkwater School will provide plenty of feeling behind her performance.

“’Old Blue’ was quite a deep and meaningful song for a child, and it opened my ears to more of her music, where Joan combined guitar with storytelling about characters I really empathised with”, Anthina says.

“I used to admire the album cover of Diamonds and Rust and think how I would want to be like her one day - she looked so much older than me then.

“Now, when I look at that same album cover, on the 50th anniversary of Diamonds and Rust, I see someone much like myself.”

And while her chosen charity, Friends of Linkwater School, was a close-to-home choice as a near neighbour and avid supporter of rural education, motivation comes from the kids she has taught.

“When I reflected on those same songs I learned, which I am now teaching to children, I realised music doesn’t have to be complicated - it can be just two chords and a simple tune and still be so powerful.

“That realisation gave me the freedom to start writing my own originals and so shaped the way I teach - keeping music fun, creative, and inspiring.”

And while this will be her biggest stage yet, she’s not looking back.

“It felt very natural to sign up. I’m in a place in my life now where I can prioritise music and share it with others, and when I saw this opportunity pop up, I was open to a new opportunity to share music, connect with an audience, and challenge myself.

“It felt like the perfect time to honour Joan and give this piece the attention and respect it deserves.”

Purchase Stars in Your Eyes tickets at Eventfinda here.