Hailing from Midrand in Gauteng, matriculant Louis Smit entered the National Youth Music Competition (NYMC) as he loves performing and sharing his music with others.

The rising star started to play the piano at the age of 10. His first music teacher was Stella Canny, and currently, he is studying under Dr Ingrid Gollom.

The 18-year-old pianist’s role model is his father, Jaco Smit. “I admire his discipline and work ethic.”

Although Louis doesn’t play any other instruments, he loves all musical instruments. Should he have to choose a favourite, it will be the piano.

The music stems from both his grandmothers. His two sisters are talented dancers, especially in ballet.

The music of Hungarian composer Franz Liszt appeals to him. “His music is very dramatic but also expressive,” he says.

Louis describes himself as passionate. He practices between two and four hours per day. Next year, he will study for his music degree at the University of Cape Town (UCT). He plans to broaden his musical interests to include composing and conducting.

Alongside piano, he also enjoys skateboarding and activities such as bungee jumping and parasailing.

His motto in life is: “Good things come from hard work.”

Should he be able to be an animal, the budding musician wants to be a cat. “They live their lives to the fullest, and I want to do the same.”