Alumni Spotlight – Micah Gillespie
What do music majors do once they graduate? During Micah Gillespie’s recent visit to Maranatha, he shared reflections from his time at Maranatha along with an update on how God is using him in ministry.
Micah came to Maranatha Baptist University (MBU) to pursue a music degree with concentrations in Piano Pedagogy and Church Music (graduated ‘21). During his time at MBU, he was involved in five performing ensembles, giving him the opportunity to participate in nineteen performing tours (including tours with the Madrigal Choir, Symphonic Band, Low Key, Percussion Ensemble, and various summer teams).
Today, Micah travels with the Southland Ministry Team. The team travels to churches and schools during the school year and serves at Southland Christian Camp during the summer. He also composes and arranges music, and teaches as needed. At camp, one might find Micah accompanying on piano for chapel, lifeguarding, or serving as a barista in the coffee shop.
Life in ministry can be very diverse, and Micah recognizes the value of the experiences he had at MBU. He summarizes that the most important skills he learned at school include time management, hands-on tour experience, and classroom techniques for teaching children. Participating in so many traveling groups while at MBU prepared him with the skillset needed to serve on the Southland Ministry Team.
Micah encourages music majors to “push through” even when they feel worn down and consider quitting. “Even after you graduate, there are days you get overwhelmed by everything.” Also, he urges students to “take advantage of every opportunity you have, especially the music opportunities.” After graduation, students might not have those chances again.
Micah is married to Emaley and they live in Ringgold, LA, when they are not on the road. He enjoys affogatos, history, reading, anything to do with music, being with friends and family, and exploring local coffee shops. Although he plays many instruments, his primary instruments are piano, violin, euphonium, and percussion. To learn more about the Southland Ministry Team, click here.