Andrew McMillan

A talented Auckland composer and musician who was left a tetraplegic following a BMX accident in 2004 will be able to complete his Master of Music thanks to a Mazda Foundation grant.

Andrew McMillan, 38, will use his $4,050 grant to purchase a laptop computer and software which will allow him to complete his study at home where he can access the round the clock support he needs.

“I have a real passion for creating new and original music with a distinct local flavour. This grant will help me to achieve this as the technology I plan to purchase will allow me to control and manipulate sounds with the small amount of movement I have,” says McMillan.

Andrew’s Masters study will focus on electronic composition and performance and when completed will complement his other qualifications including a Diploma in Jazz Studies from the Christchurch Jazz School, a Post Graduate Certificate in Jazz Contemporary and Popular Music from Leeds College of Music (UK) and a Bachelor of Music (first class honours) degree from the University of Auckland School of Music.