Inspired by his mother’s playing the cello, the 15-year-old Jayden Li from Craighall in Johannesburg, started playing the cello at age seven.

When entering the National Youth Music Competition (NMYC) his strategy was to embrace the joy of performing, staying true to himself.

“I choose pieces that resonate with me, allowing my personality and passion to shine through. I prepare thoroughly, focusing on both technical mastery and emotional connection. This is quite challenging for me. Nonetheless, I aim to give my all and put on a show for the audience,” he explains.

The St John’s College learner in Houghton Estate, Johannesburg is part of his school’s A-team for rowing. He also enjoys partaking in drama productions whenever the opportunity arises.

Jayden says he tries to practice two to three hours per day, but when life gets busy, he makes sure to fit in at least an hour of practice per day.

His first and current teacher is internationally acclaimed cellist and conductor, Carel Henn.

Jayden used to play piano, violin and drums but he now focuses on mastering the cello. Apart from his cellist mother, he has a bigger brother who is also playing music - violin and drums.

French composer, organist, conductor and pianist of the Romantic era, Camille Saint-Saëns is his favourite composer.

“I favour Saint-Saëns for his great cello music. His pieces feature beautiful melodies and challenging parts that show off what the cello can do. I enjoy playing and listening to his composition,” he brims.

Should he progress to the semi-final and final, he has prepared to play the composer’s entire Concert no 1, Opus 33 – the first, second and third movements.

Describing himself as driven and he describes his music as red. According to him, red conveys emotional intensity, risk-taking, boldness, warmth and drama. It can also reflect frustration.

The budding star is not a radio listener but watches Netflix where his favourite is “Lost in Space”.

With the motto Failure is a stepping stone, not a setback, Jayden doesn’t have a clear aspiration for the future yet. He says he enjoys exploring various interests and giving his best in everything he does.

“I do keep my options open,” he smiles.