Toni Pollard

I was brought up in the South Island of New Zealand in a family with a big passion for music. With an opera singer, concert pianist, as well as numerous vocalists and players, I am the songwriter of the family.

Mum was always practising and gigging when I was growing up and my father instilled in me his love for country music.

New Zealand inspired me in ways that would become evident in later life.

With no TV, radio was my vehicle to hear all different kinds of music. American Folk songs were played a lot and consequently became favourite family sing-a-longs on the farm.

After learning classical piano it wasn’t long ’til I got my first guitar. Having always loved melody and with a growing interest in chords, my musical journey began, with many teachers on the way.

After graduating in Australia from The Queensland Conservatorium of Music, my direction became more focused, and the sounds I had absorbed for years started to come together.

My songwriting style has evolved by experimenting with different forms of music. It combines elements of New Country, Traditional country. Blues/Roots, Bluegrass, and Folk/Classical- with touches of Rock and Jazz.