Throughout his extensive musical output, Edwin Carr demonstrated a consummate craftsmanship and refinement. Regarded as the most cosmopolitan of the elder generation of New Zealand composers, he was particularly noted for his strident opposition to what he felt were attitudes of insular nationalism and intellectual pretension.
Edwin Carr was born in Auckland, New Zealand and educated at Otago Boys High School. He studied music at Otago University (1944-45) and Auckland University College (1946, degree unfinished), and later attended the first Cambridge Summer Music School in 1946 where Douglas Lilburn tutored composition.
In 1948, with the aid of a government bursary, Carr travelled to England where he undertook further study in composition at the Guildhall with Benjamin Frankel. After a period of freelance work and travel, in 1954 a British Council scholarship enabled him to study in Rome with Goffredo Petrassi. Whilst in Italy, Carr also worked as musical director of an independent ballet company. In 1957 a further British Council scholarship enabled him to study with Carl Orff in Munich.
Carr returned to New Zealand in 1958 and remained there until 1960, dividing his time between teaching and composing. During the 1960s and 70s, he spent time in both England and Australia, composing, teaching and studying, returning for occasional periods to New Zealand.
In 1984, Carr returned to New Zealand where he remained, working as a freelance composer, teacher and conductor, until his death in 2003 at his home on Waiheke Island.
Edwin Carr was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 1999.
