Pianist who battles depression hails 'support' from Lottery funding

Taught by her mother, her natural talent as a pianist was evident even from that early age.

The Londonderry-born pianist went on to win both the BBC and RTE Young Musician of the Year competitions, was invited to play concertos with orchestras such as the BBC Philharmonic and the London Mozart Players, and also toured as a solo recitalist throughout Europe.

But following her early success McGinley battled for years with depression and addiction.

However, the talented musician has said she is now back on top with the release of her debut album Reconnection, thanks to National Lottery funding in Northern Ireland.

McGinley said: "I achieved success in my early years as a musician but became burnt out in later years as I struggled with depression, anxiety and addiction.

"But I have had the most amazing few months since I released my debut album, Reconnection.

"The support I have had as a result of National Lottery funding through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland has been incredible and they have been with me every step of the way."

McGinley appears alongside a host of projects from the arts, community, heritage and sporting sectors in a new film thanking National Lottery players for their support.

Her Reconnection album received £5,000 of National Lottery funding from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland in 2014.

It places her alongside the likes of Paralympics gold medallist Bethany Firth, golfer Rory McIlroy and restoration projects such as the Walled City Partnership in Derry and the regeneration of the Connswater Community Greenway in Belfast as a Lottery beneficiary.

They now feature in an online campaign revealing what the National Lottery has done for Northern Ireland.

Since 1994, players have supported more than 20,000 projects in Northern Ireland with £1 billion of investment.

Jackie O'Sullivan, from the National Lottery, added: "National Lottery funding has had a life-changing impact on society in Northern Ireland.

"Our awards have made their way to elite athletes and artists, grassroots sports clubs and community arts groups.

"In addition, they have transformed and preserved Northern Ireland's built and natural heritage and helped charities improve communities for the better."