20 year old Performer-Composer Thomas started playing the Violin aged 8, and decided to pursue a career in music at 15. He completed a Bachelors in music at the University of Canterbury, and is now completing honours, achieving multiple scholarships and awards including national composition competition wins along the way. He’s a 3-time winner of the Outstanding Achievement in the Arts Blues Award from the UCSA; has performed/recorded a winning composition with NZSO; achieved 3 Lilburn Awards for composition; participated in an Australian festival and been in masterclasses with NZSO and international artists. Thomas is passionate about collaborating with musicians from different fields – pop, rock to classical. This Grant will support further study and participating in initiatives towards his goal to be a professional New Zealand musician and collaborate globally. Thomas also wants to keep performing as often as he can with original programmes to give audiences new experiences.