Does Monica Barbaro Play Guitar?

Monica Barbaro, known for her impressive performances in both film and television, has recently showcased yet another talent—playing the guitar. Best recognized for her role as Lieutenant Natasha "Phoenix" Trace in Top Gun: Maverick, Barbaro took on an entirely different challenge for her latest project: portraying legendary folk singer Joan Baez in the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown. But did she actually learn to play the guitar for the role? Let’s dive into what we know.

Learning to Play the Guitar for A Complete Unknown

To prepare for her role as Joan Baez, Monica Barbaro dedicated herself to mastering the guitar. She committed countless hours to practice, even going so far as to fall asleep with the instrument in her bed. This intense dedication paid off, allowing her to embody Baez’s signature musical style with authenticity.

Interestingly, Baez herself revealed that she had a similar habit when she was first learning to play, which Barbaro found both inspiring and validating. This deep connection to Baez’s personal journey helped Barbaro bring a sense of realism to her portrayal, making her performance even more compelling.

Developing a Musician’s Eye and Ear

Barbaro didn’t just learn how to strum a few chords—she immersed herself in the art of folk guitar. She now carries a fingerpick in her pocket, a small but telling detail of how much the instrument has become a part of her daily life. Additionally, she has developed a keen eye for musical instruments, claiming she can spot a Martin guitar from a distance, a skill many seasoned musicians take years to develop.

Embracing the Legacy of Joan Baez

To effectively bring Baez to life on screen, Barbaro didn’t just focus on learning the guitar—she also studied the legendary musician’s career and performance style. She learned about Baez’s early days performing in Boston and New York coffeehouses, where she built her reputation as a solo folk artist. Barbaro also took note of Baez’s incredible vocal dynamics, understanding that her ability to shift effortlessly between powerful and delicate notes was a key part of her identity as a performer.

How Did Critics Respond to Barbaro’s Performance?

Critics have widely praised Monica Barbaro’s portrayal of Joan Baez, commending her for capturing both the tenderness and virtuosity of the folk singer. Many reviewers noted that her performance matched the energy and authenticity of Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal of Bob Dylan. By truly embodying Baez—both musically and emotionally—Barbaro has cemented herself as a rising star capable of taking on deeply challenging roles.

Will Monica Barbaro Continue Playing Guitar?

While she initially learned the guitar for her role in A Complete Unknown, it seems that Barbaro has developed a genuine love for the instrument. Many actors leave behind skills they acquire for specific roles, but given her passion for music and dedication to learning, it wouldn’t be surprising if she continues playing long after filming has wrapped. Whether or not she pursues music further, her ability to convincingly portray Baez has already left a lasting impression.

Final Thoughts

Monica Barbaro’s transformation into Joan Baez wasn’t just about acting—it was about fully immersing herself in the world of folk music. From her relentless guitar practice to studying Baez’s career, she approached the role with remarkable dedication. Whether she continues playing guitar in her personal life or not, one thing is certain: her hard work has paid off, and audiences have taken notice.

For fans of both Monica Barbaro and Joan Baez, A Complete Unknown offers a chance to see a truly committed performance that brings a legendary musician to life. And for Barbaro, this role may just be the beginning of an exciting new artistic journey.