2026 Wilshire Quinn
Musical Arts Scholarship

We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who applied for the 2026 Wilshire Quinn Musical Arts Scholarship. The exceptional talent displayed by this year’s applicants made the selection process both inspiring and highly competitive.

After careful review, we are pleased to announce Niko Macario as the recipient of the 2026 Wilshire Quinn Musical Arts Scholarship. Niko is a gifted guitarist from Vancouver, Canada, entering his second year at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he is pursuing a degree in Global Jazz Studies.

Niko picked up the guitar at ten, inspired by classic rock, blues, and metal. As he explored harmony and improvisation, he discovered jazz—a genre whose creativity and spontaneity perfectly matched his natural curiosity.

After relocating to San Francisco during middle school, Niko immersed himself in the Bay Area’s vibrant jazz community. Through advanced training with SFJAZZ, he refined his skills in composition, arrangement, and ensemble performance. His original works have since earned honors including the Grand Prize distinction with a perfect score from the International Youth Music Competition and consecutive National Semifinalist placements in the Technology Student Association’s Music Production competition.

Beyond his musical accomplishments, Niko is passionate about using music to serve others. He is currently developing a guitar fretboard learning app that makes music theory more interactive, as well as a music-based therapy app inspired by his grandmother’s experience with dementia.

At UCLA, Niko continues to refine his artistry through the university’s ensemble programs. He aspires to create emotionally driven film scores that reflect his evolving perspective as a musician. Above all, he hopes his music will inspire others and remind people of its unique ability to communicate what words often cannot.

We are truly inspired by Niko’s remarkable talent and dedication to enriching the lives of others through music. On behalf of everyone at Wilshire Quinn Capital, we congratulate Niko Macario and look forward to following his continued success.

Sincerely,
Christopher M. Garcia
CEO

2026 Wilshire Quinn Musical Arts Scholarship Winner, Niko Macario