Micah Pillay, a talented 17-year-old from Brackenfell, Cape Town, is one of five cellists selected to compete in the 2025 National Youth Music Competition (NYMC).

Micah started to play the cello at the age of seven and has since taught himself several other instruments, including the ukulele, guitar, bass guitar, marimba, and voice. He also receives private piano lessons. The Grade 10 learner at the Brackenfell High School is currently preparing for his Unisa Grade seven exam.

"Most of these instruments are played at my school, so I tinker on them from time to time. Except for the piano, I am self-taught on all of them."He views

He views the NYMC as both a valuable learning experience and a way to grow as a musician.

When asked about his favourite instrument, Micah explains that it depends on the setting: "If I am alone, I prefer the piano or the cello. The cello is melodic and expressive, and the piano blends melody and harmony.

"When I am out, I take my ukulele as it is small and fun to sing with friends. I prefer piano, guitar or bass guitar," he smiles.

German composer Johann Sebastian Bach is this young musician's favourite composer. "His understanding of instruments is incredible. The detail in his writing is exceptional. He can use music to paint scenes from nature, almost like a map (cartography) of sound," he explains.

Although he has no single role model. "I aim to be better than what I was yesterday. I admire certain people, but more for their advice than to emulate them."

Interestingly, none of his immediate family members plays an instrument, but his parents encourage all three children to study music from an early age. Micah is the youngest of three, and both his older siblings play the violin.

If he could be any animal, Micah would choose to be a sloth: "Life moves so fast that it's hard to enjoy each moment. I'd love to be a sloth - relaxed, unhurried, and confident that everything will get done, even if it takes time. That makes the outcome more rewarding."

He practices music between two and four hours a day, although on busy days, he may only manage half an hour. In his free time, he enjoys table tennis, chess, and playing games with friends. He also loves hiking and other outdoor activities when time allows.

After completing matric, Micah hopes to study music through a bursary or to study music, either locally on a bursary or overseas with the help of a sponsor. "I would love to travel, which is why studying abroad appeals to me."

Micah describes himself as a creative person. He has two life mottos:
* "Nothing comes easy, so work hard"
* "Use the talents God has given you."